After a rocky outing against the Chicago White Sox, the Tampa Bay Rays optioned MLBbro Taj Bradley to AAA. Sure, Bradley had a bad game — it happens. But giving up four runs in the second inning after being handed a four-run cushion? That’s enough to test any manager’s patience.
Still, was it really worthy of the July 24th demotion that hit Taj Bradley like a ton of bricks?
Why Was Taj Bradley Really Demoted?
From the Rays’ point of view, at least for now, it was. Bradley hasn’t had the smoothest season. As of July 26, he holds a 6-6 record with a 4.61 ERA. A big factor? His approach on the mound has become increasingly predictable.
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Bradley’s Splitter Not Doing What It Do: Seeking A Third Pitch
Two and a possible… Bradley losing confidence in his stuff. His confidence in the splitter — once a key part of his arsenal — has all but vanished. It dropped from a 20% usage rate in April to just 6.8% in July. While Bradley still brings heat with a strong four-seamer and cutter, relying on just those two pitches without a third option makes him vulnerable — as we saw against Chicago.
Bradley isn’t ducking from the challenge. He knows he needs more in his toolbox.
“I know I need that third … to get back to where it was last year,” said Bradley. “‘l’ll just take it as it is and go down there, get back to work, just keep going.”
Manager Kevin Cash echoed a similar sentiment — one of belief, but urgency. “Tough decision, certainly, but felt like it’s best for him to get down there right now,” Cash said. “He’s got to get to work.”
Bad Performance, Great Timing for the Rays Checkbook?
The timing of this decision feels loaded. The Rays are nine games out of first at 54-54 and 8.5 games out of first place. They are 3-7 in their last 10 games. With the AL East shaping up for a chaotic playoff push, every move matters. The Yankees are dealing with defensive struggles and an injury to MVP center fielder Aaron Judge. The rest of the division smells opportunity.
If the Rays want to stay in the race, they’ll need Bradley back — and better. The rest of the rotation isn’t lighting it up, either. Bradley’s 4.61 ERA is the second highest, but not by much. Outside of Drew Rasmussen (the only starter with an ERA under 3.00), no one’s dominating.
While Bradley hasn’t matched his breakout 2024 form, his numbers are still in the mix with the rest of the rotation. That makes this demotion feel… extreme. Could there be more to it? Bradley signed a 1-year, $774,200 deal before the season to avoid arbitration. With free agency looming, is this move about more than performance? A way to manage his value?
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The Rays seem to still believe in Bradley — they just may want to control the price tag. He’s shown flashes of Ace potential on a budget-friendly deal. Sending him down now may soften his market and make it easier to re-sign him later. For now, the language coming from the Rays suggests this move is temporary. But make no mistake — this is a pivotal moment. Bradley needs to treat this stint in AAA as a chance to reset, retool, and remind everyone — including the Rays — exactly who he is. Not just for a spot in the rotation, but for his future bag.
