Rays’ biggest flop to begin 2026 MLB season

Through his first seven games of the season, the right-hander holds a 8.44 ERA and a 4/4 K/BB ratio. Jax’s bloated ERA comes from a blow up game against Milwaukee Brewers when he allowed three runs without recording an out. He has turned things around recently though and is on a 3.1 inning scoreless streak.

Still, to start the season Jax allowed runs in three of his first four outings. Tampa Bay is expecting the right-hander to be a high leverage reliever. If they are to make the playoffs, they want to be able to trust him in tight situations. He wasn’t to start the campaign, now he looks more reliable. Will the real Jax please stand up?

As for the trade itself, it’s hard to fault Tampa Bay for making it. Bradley, while a former top prospect, struggled during his run with the Rays. In turn, Jax posted a 2.03 ERA and a 95/15 ERA in 2024. After the trade, the righty-hander recorded a 3.60 ERA and a 27/8 K/BB ratio.

Jax being an early 2026 flop isn’t due to what the Rays gave up to get him, but instead the fact the relief pitcher hasn’t lived up to the hype. His potential only looked stronger during his run with Team USA in the World Baseball Classic too. Jax pitched 3.2 innings of scoreless baseball, striking out three and walking none. After that performance, Rays fans were hopeful the relief pitcher would carry his momentum over into the regular season.

So far, that hasn’t happened yet. But there have been clear signs that Jax is ready to turn the corner. If he is able to extend his scoreless inning streak, this will all become a moot point. Still, the Rays have high expectations for the highly touted relief pitcher. Jax must prove he can be the impact player Tampa Bay needs.