Ahead of the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline, the Tampa Bay Rays made a surprising move as a buyer despite their place in the standings. They took full advantage of the Minnesota Twins’ fire sale , acquiring relief pitcher Griffin Jax in exchange for starting pitcher Taj Bradley. It was a great deal for the Rays, who had plenty of starting pitching depth but needed help in the bullpen. The trade looked even better when Tampa Bay declined the team option on closer Pete Fairbanks. Jax had the numbers to thrive in a late-game, high-leverage role, and that was the plan coming into the year. Alas, things didn’t go as planned. He struggled mightily out of the gate with inconsistenices to the tune of an 8.00 ERA through his first 11 appearances and nine innings of work. However, things have begun to turn around for him after manager Kevin Cash changed his role. Griffin Jax thriving as opener for Rays Apr 26, 2026; St.…