Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Jonny DeLuca was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a right hamstring strain that will keep him sidelined for six to eight weeks. The Rays received the update from Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, who confirmed the injury is serious enough to push DeLuca’s return well into July.
DeLuca, 27, has been a key contributor to the Rays’ outfield this season. Known for his speed and defensive prowess, he ranks in the 95th percentile among qualified players in sprint speed per Statcast. He has already swiped six bases and added three Defensive Runs Saved and three Outs Above Average. While his .269/.298/.412 batting line translates to a 98 wRC+, just below league average, his offensive impact has been inflated by a .330 batting average on balls in play.
The Rays have leaned on a small outfield group this season, with DeLuca, Cedric Mullins, Chandler Simpson, Jake Fraley, and Ryan Vilade rotating in and out of the lineup. Now with both DeLuca and Fraley out for six to eight weeks, the team is forced to rely on a mix of inconsistent production and defensive upside. Mullins, who is batting just .192/.255/.285 on the season, and Vilade, who has a .308/.382/.477 line, will see more playing time.
Víctor Mesa Jr. was recalled from the minors to fill the void left by DeLuca’s IL placement. Mesa has a career line of .188/.297/.344, which will be tested as he earns more big league at-bats.
The Rays are currently the best team in baseball at 34-16, but their outfield has underperformed offensively. Collectively, the position players have a .254/.302/.357 line, translating to an 85 wRC+, better than only five other teams in the majors. The Rays will likely look to upgrade the outfield at the July trade deadline.
With DeLuca and Fraley sidelined until late July, the Rays have time to assess the depth and consider trade options. The club has until July 30 to make moves, and the return of DeLuca and Fraley could influence the team’s decisions. The Rays are expected to be aggressive in making additions ahead of the deadline.
Next up for the Rays is a three-game series against the New York Yankees, starting Thursday night at Tropicana Field.
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