Tampa Bay Rays Sign Drew Rasmussen to Two-Year, $8.5 Million Deal With Option for 2027

Jan 9, 2025, 06:02 PM

The Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a two-year, $8.5 million contract with right-hander Drew Rasmussen, avoiding salary arbitration. The deal includes a team option for 2027 that could increase its value to $28 million, depending on Rasmussen's health and performance. Rasmussen, who returned in August 2024 from his third elbow surgery, will receive a $500,000 signing bonus, $2 million for 2025, and $5.5 million for 2026. If the option is exercised, he could earn up to $20 million in 2027, with a $500,000 buyout if not. Rasmussen, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers in May 2021, has a record of 20-12 with a 2.95 ERA in his MLB career.