The Rays are reportedly close to signing free-agent left-hander Steven Matz to a two-year contract, pending a physical examination. This move comes after Matz's successful first season as a primary reliever, showcasing his versatility and effectiveness. With a 3.05 ERA in 2025, Matz's performance was his lowest since his impressive debut with the pennant-winning 2015 Mets. His transition from starter to reliever has been gradual, but in 2025, it became a full-time role, with Matz starting just twice in 53 appearances.
Matz's four-pitch arsenal, led by his sinker (58.4% usage), has proven to be a potent combination. His curveball and changeup, both with elite vertical drop, have yielded decent results, while his slider, though rarely used, adds depth to his repertoire. Matz's ability to limit fly balls and pulled contact, coupled with a reduced walk rate, has significantly improved his ERA from 5.08 in 2024 to 3.05 in 2025. This performance has ranked him among the top MLB pitchers in terms of walk rate, with just 11 free passes in 76 2/3 innings.
Despite not having an above-average strikeout rate since 2022, Matz continues to find ways to dominate hitters. His success as a reliever highlights his adaptability and ability to excel in different roles. The Rays' interest in Matz is a strategic move, as his experience and skill set will undoubtedly strengthen their pitching rotation.
