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Brandon Lowe Reinstated from IL as Rays Option Curtis Mead to Triple-A

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Anthony Arroyo | Last updated Jul 20, 2025 9:00 PM ET

The Tampa Bay Rays officially reinstated infielder Brandon Lowe from the 10-day injured list after a period on the shelf with left oblique tightness. The team announced the move on Friday, following Lowe’s recovery from an injury that had sidelined him prior to the All-Star break.

The Tampa Bay Rays have reinstated INF Brandon Lowe (left oblique tightness) from the 10-day IL and optioned INF Curtis Mead to Triple-A Durham.
— Rays Communications (@RaysPR) July 18, 2025

To clear a roster spot, the Rays optioned infielder Curtis Mead to Triple-A Durham. Mead, 23, has moved between the Majors and Minors this season, posting a .226 batting average, a .318 on-base percentage, and three home runs in limited play.

Lowe’s return provides a boost to a Rays team currently sitting fourth in the American League East with a 52–47 record. An All-Star this season, Lowe has been a key contributor, batting .269/.320 with 19 home runs. Overall, his presence in the lineup adds much-needed power and experience as Tampa Bay pushes for a competitive playoff spot in a very tough AL division.

With the MLB Trade Deadline approaching quickly, Lowe’s return could influence whether the Rays position themselves as buyers or sellers. His impact down the stretch will be crucial as the team aims to stay in the postseason hunt.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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