The Tampa Bay Rays bullpen picture just got more crowded as the team announced that the Washington Nationals have returned right-handed pitcher Evan Reifert back to the organization. The Nationals had selected Reifert during the MLB portion of the Rule 5 draft in December 2024, but he struggled during spring training with control issues.
In his spring training outings, Reifert allowed 12 runs over 6 1/3 innings pitched, walking an alarming 12 batters while striking out only nine. His performance was concerning, with only 46.5% of his pitches landing as strikes. The Nationals decided they couldn’t afford to keep him on an active roster due to his lack of control.
Reifert, who is 25 years old, was originally drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 30th round of the 2018 draft, although he didn't make his professional debut until 2021. In a trade, the Rays acquired Reifert from the Brewers in exchange for Mike Brosseau. By all accounts, Reifert showed a tremendous ability to strike hitters out during his minor league career, boasting a 40.2% strikeout rate in 2021 and a 38.5% in 2022.
In 2024, he had an impressive season in Double-A with the Rays, posting a 1.96 ERA across 35 relief appearances and racking up 65 strikeouts in just 41.1 innings, alongside a WHIP of 0.919. This performance had led the Nationals to draft him in hopes of strengthening their bullpen, acknowledging his potential for dominating pitching.
However, even with a talent like Reifert, the Nationals' manager Dave Martinez underscored the necessity of having reliable control. “We love his stuff, we love his makeup but it's about him being consistent on throwing strikes. Can't come out of the bullpen and walk guys. You put yourself in a bad situation,” he explained in a recent interview. The Nationals, looking to be more competitive this season, decided they needed no liabilities on the roster.
As Reifert returns to the Rays, he will rejoin their minor league system where he can work on his control issues and try to refine his talent. The competition is heating up for the Tampa Bay bullpen, as various pitchers are vying for limited spots on the major league roster. Interest in Reifert remains strong due to his potential, but now he must regain the command that eluded him during spring training.
The return of Reifert highlights the challenges young pitchers face in transitioning to the big leagues. While his sliders are praised for their effectiveness, without the ability to command those pitches effectively, success remains elusive. As the Nationals look toward a more promising season, they will focus on players who can deliver consistently, leaving Reifert to carve out his path and perhaps return stronger in the future.
Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as Reifert attempts to regain his form and earn another chance. The coming weeks in the minor leagues might just provide the opportunity he needs to solidify his place among one of the Rays' promising relief pitchers.
