Rays top-ten prospect Shane McClanahan added to postseason roster

The Tampa Bay Rays will be including one of their top pitching prospects on their postseason roster as Marc Topkin reports that Shane McClanahan is be called up to join the big league squad and will potentially make his Major League debut during the Wild Card round of the postseason.

McClanahan was a first round selection by the Rays in the 2018 draft, selected at 31st overall out of the University of South Florida; he was considered the top left-handed pitcher in the draft by Baseball America. He made his professional debut that summer and was electric as he carved through opposing hitters during his brief time on the mound. In 2019, McClanahan surged through the system and finished the year at the Double-A level.

Before the season, DRaysBay ranked McClanahan as the No. 4 prospect in the best farm system in baseball

The stuff was never in question on draft day. A plus-plus fastball and plus curveball combo would play at the major league level, but the question was about role. Would his command improve enough to remain a starter?

With continued development of a third pitch in a changeup that flashes average presently, his command took a big step forward in 2019, especially after being promoted to Port Charlotte (A+) and Montgomery (AA).

McClanahan racked up a career high 120.2 innings with a 30.6% strikeout rate and 8.9% walk rate. He posted a 3.36 ERA and 2.71 FIP.

Read More: Shane McClanahan’s quick ascent through Rays system

Shane McClanahan is not on the Rays 40-man roster, so the Rays will be required to make a move in order to complete the transaction.

Earlier this month, McClanahan’s season came under question when he hyperextended his knee while pitching on September 5th and was carted off the field. His addition indicates a full recovery.