The Tampa Bay Rays have made a strategic move by acquiring right-handed pitcher Forrest Whitley from the Houston Astros for cash considerations. This transaction took place on Friday after Whitley was designated for assignment by Houston just a few days prior.
Whitley, who was once regarded as a top-10 prospect in MLB, was drafted by the Astros with the 17th overall pick in the 2016 MLB draft, receiving a notable signing bonus of $3.148 million. However, his journey towards fulfilling that promise has been challenging. After making his major league debut only in the 2024 season, he appeared in a mere three relief outings without allowing any earned runs over 3⅓ innings.
Currently 27, Whitley struggled during the 2023 season, featuring in five games for Houston where he allowed 10 earned runs over 7⅓ innings, accumulating a 12.27 ERA with no decisions recorded.
In his minor league career, Whitley has made 117 appearances, including 65 starts, accumulating a 17-20 record alongside a 4.75 ERA over 306⅔ innings pitched, with 421 strikeouts and 160 walks.
This acquisition by the Rays provides Whitley with a fresh start where he may have the opportunity to refine his skills and potentially fulfill the high expectations placed upon him earlier in his career. The team’s willingness to invest in him may signal their belief in his potential, and fans will be hopeful that he can turn his career around in Tampa Bay.