The name Wade Davis has been penciled into the Rays' plans this season, but only penciled in, because the team wants the young right-hander to earn the final spot in the rotation.
All signs pointed to that happening based on the way Davis pitched during his September call-up last season. Still, should Davis falter during these next few weeks, Andy Sonnanstine could reclaim a spot in the rotation.
"It's still wide open," Manager Joe Maddon said.
Maddon was impressed with Sonnanstine's work in the offseason. After a poor first outing where his new delivery was off-kilter, Sonnanstine settled down and allowed one hit and one walk and struck out three during four scoreless innings against the Red Sox in his second appearance.
Davis, meanwhile, has not looked sharp, walking six in 42/3 innings over two appearances.
"Wade really hasn't had a great outing yet," Maddon said. "That doesn't bother me."
Maddon said it's still too early to be evaluating pitchers. More than likely, this competition will come down to the final spring games, especially since Sonnanstine is also being considered for a spot in the bullpen.
"If they both look that good and you have to make a difficult decision, at least you know you have six good starters," Maddon said. "That's part of it, too."
Roger Mooney
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