Dodgers Interest In Rays Reliever Reaches New Height

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Fairbanks, 31, holds a 2.75 ERA and 2.89 FIP over 39.1 innings this season, with 18 saves and 33 strikeouts. While his strikeout rate (20.2%) is down from his career norm, he’s surrendered just one home run and continues to feature a fastball that averages 97.3 mph with improved cutting action. His slurvy slider has also gained depth, helping both pitches play up compared to prior seasons.

Over his career, Fairbanks has posted a 3.20 ERA, 2.89 FIP, and 29.9% strikeout rate. Despite a recent dip in whiffs, he remains highly effective, particularly in high-leverage spots.

Contract And Connections

Fairbanks is under a three-year, $12 million deal signed in 2023, with a $7 million club option for 2026. That kind of cost control only adds to his appeal for a team like the Dodgers, who are both contending now and mindful of future flexibility.

There’s also a front-office familiarity between the two clubs. Rays general manager Erik Neander once worked under Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, which has previously smoothed the path for deals.

Trade Uncertainty As Rays Hover In The Race

Still, Fairbanks’ availability remains uncertain. Tampa Bay entered Tuesday just 2.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot. While they’ve made both buy-side and sell-side moves in recent days — such as flipping Danny Jansen while pursuing Nick Fortes — they’re unlikely to move a late-inning arm without a compelling return.

Given their own bullpen injuries (including absences from Bryan Baker and Manuel Rodríguez), the Rays may not be eager to part with a healthy, productive closer under club control.

Dodgers Trade Rumors: Bullpen In Flux

For Los Angeles, Fairbanks would fill a pressing need. Manager Dave Roberts recently said the team is “in need of a right-handed relief pitcher who could handle leverage situations.” With Blake Treinen’s health still a question and Brusdar Graterol rehabbing, Fairbanks would slot in as a stabilizing force alongside Evan Phillips and Ryan Brasier.

At 62–45 and atop the NL West, the Dodgers are built to win now. But after a losing July and a series of blown leads, the pressure to shore up the bullpen is rising. Whether Tampa Bay ultimately chooses to deal Fairbanks, the Dodgers’ interest — and their need — appears more real than ever.