Rays Demote Player After Griffin Jax News

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Rays Demote Player After Griffin Jax News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Sep 2, 2026 4:08 PM ET

Griffin Jax is set to return to the Tampa Bay Rays’ rotation Wednesday, giving the American League East leaders a major boost as they face the New York Mets.

The Rays activated Jax from the 15-day injured list after the right-hander missed time with right elbow discomfort. To make room, Tampa Bay optioned right-hander Alex Cook to Triple-A Durham. The club announced the move through its official communications account on X.

Jax will start Wednesday’s game at Tropicana Field, according to MLB’s official lineup and probable-pitcher listings.

The Tampa Bay Rays have reinstated RHP Griffin Jax (right elbow discomfort) from the 15-day IL and optioned RHP Alex Cook to Triple-A Durham.

Jax will start tonight against the New York Mets.
— Rays Communications (@RaysPR) September 2, 2026

The 31-year-old has been an important part of the Rays’ pitching staff this season, working as a starter and reliever. Through 29 appearances, including 18 starts, Jax has a 6-9 record, 3.63 ERA and 1.21 WHIP with 100 strikeouts over 91.2 innings.

His return comes at a critical point for Tampa Bay, which entered Wednesday with an 83-55 record and a sizable lead in the AL East.

Cook, meanwhile, returns to Durham after making two major league appearances this season. He allowed three earned runs across 3.2 innings during his brief stint with the Rays.

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Griffin Jax (22) Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Rays have little reason to take their foot off the gas with the postseason approaching. Their 83 wins are the most in the AL, and they entered Wednesday 4.5 games ahead of the New York Yankees.

Jax’s return gives Tampa Bay another experienced arm as it continues navigating the final weeks of the regular season.

The right-hander will face a Mets team that entered the matchup at 62-77, leaving the Rays with another opportunity to strengthen their position atop the division.

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

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