The Rays face the Orioles on July 18, 2025, aiming to end a 4-game skid. See how roster moves involving Joey Gerber & Hunter Bigge impact their second half.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The All-Star break is officially in the rearview mirror, and for the Tampa Bay Rays, the second half couldn't start a moment too soon. Mired in a frustrating four-game losing streak, the Rays (50-47) return to action tonight at George M. Steinbrenner Field, hosting the division-rival Baltimore Orioles. But before the first pitch, the front office was busy, making a couple of key roster moves to adjust the pitching staff for the stretch run.
The Rays (50-47) return from the All-Star break looking to snap a four-game losing streak.
The big transaction news of the day is the selection of right-hander Joey Gerber to the 40-man roster. The 28-year-old, who has previous MLB experience with the Seattle Mariners back in 2020, brings a career 4.02 ERA in 17 big-league appearances. While he was immediately optioned to Triple-A Durham, this move is a classic Rays maneuver: bolstering pitching depth for the inevitable grind of August and September. Don't be surprised to see Gerber get a look in St. Pete if the need arises.
The corresponding move to add Gerber, however, comes with a somber note. Righty Hunter Bigge has been officially transferred to the 60-day injured list. This was an expected step as he continues his recovery from surgery to repair facial fractures. Bigge suffered the frightening injury after being struck by a foul ball on July 19. The move to the 60-day IL is a procedural one to free up the 40-man spot, but it also underscores the long road back for the tough-as-nails pitcher. The entire Rays community is wishing him a full and speedy recovery.
With the roster set for now, all eyes turn to the field. This three-game set against the Orioles (43-52) is critical. Ending the first half on a four-game slide was a sour note, and the team needs to wash that taste out of its mouth immediately. Starting the second half with a series win against a divisional opponent at home would be a massive momentum boost. The Orioles have lost two straight themselves, so both clubs are hungry for a victory to set the tone for the rest of the season.
Tonight is more than just the first game back; it's a statement game. It's a chance for the Rays to prove that the pre-break slump was an anomaly and that they are ready to make a serious push for the postseason. A win tonight against the Orioles wouldn't just snap a losing streak—it would signal the start of a new chapter. First pitch is at 11:35 PM ET, let's see if the boys can get it done.
