Rays Decline Option on Closer Pete Fairbanks, Making Him a Free Agent

The Tampa Bay Rays have officially declined their $11 million option on closer Pete Fairbanks, a move that immediately makes him a free agent. This decision means Fairbanks will not be returning to the Rays under the terms of his previous contract, allowing him to explore all available opportunities with other teams on the open market. As a proven closer, Fairbanks is now free to negotiate with any MLB club, seeking a new deal for the upcoming season after the Rays opted not to retain him at the $11 million price point.