Griffin Jax Slated for Rays' Closer-by-Committee in 2026

Griffin Jax is expected to be part of the Tampa Bay Rays' closer-by-committee in 2026, alongside Garrett Cleavinger and Edwin Uceta, as reported by Marc Topkin. Despite prior talk of stretching out for a rotation spot, the 31-year-old will remain in the bullpen. Acquired from the Twins at the trade deadline, Jax posted a 4.23 ERA in 2025, but his 2.51 FIP and 35 percent strikeout rate suggest better underlying performance. He is tentatively planned to share the closer role.