Cubs vs. Rays Series Preview: What to Expect This Season

The Tampa Bay Rays have not started the 2026 season as they had hoped. The sample size is small, but early issues are visible.

A chief positive is the return of Shane McClanahan. He is an All-Star right-hander who missed two full seasons.

McClanahan made one start this year against Milwaukee. He looked sharp but received little run support and did not pick up the win.

Rotation outlook

Drew Rasmussen has also posted a strong start to the year. He should present a tough matchup for Chicago hitters.

As the Cubs vs. Rays matchup draws near, Tampa Bay’s pitching staff will shape the series preview. Expect game plans built around McClanahan and Rasmussen.

Defense and run support concerns

Fielding has been a clear problem so far. The club has shown too many errors and inconsistent defensive results.

Those mistakes have hampered the Rays’ ability to hold leads. They have also failed to provide reliable run support when starting pitchers have been strong.

Base-running threat

Chandler Simpson remains a key offensive weapon. He brings elite speed, sharp steal instincts, and an aggressive approach on the bases.

Opponents will need to account for him whenever he reaches base.

In this Series Preview, expect pitching health and offensive consistency to determine early outcomes. What to expect this season is improvement if the defense steadies and the lineup delivers timely runs for the staff.