Drew Rasmussen to make first start as Rays visit Nationals
WASHINGTON — The Rays have a chance to open a season 4-0 for the first time in their 26-year history when they open a quick three-game series against the Nationals tonight in Washington.
Drew Rasmussen will be on the mound for his season debut, trying to match the work of the Rays’ first three starters. Shane McClanahan, Zach Eflin and Jeffrey Springs combined to allow one run over 17 innings in a sweep of the Tigers. Rasmussen is coming off a solid first full season as a starter in 2022.
The Nationals appear to be in for another long season under manager Dave Martinez, the former Rays outfielder and bench coach. Trevor Williams will start for Washington.
In other news:
* Manager Kevin Cash said they may opt to use an opener in front of lefty Josh Fleming, who earned the No. 5 starter’s job after Tyler Glasnow was injured in spring training. A decision will be made after Monday’s game.
* Cash said the decision to use Randy Arozarena at DH was two pronged: To give Arozarena a day off his feet and to give some field time to Harold Ramirez, who is starting in left.
Here is the Rays’ lineup.
Here is the Nats’ lineup:
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