Shane McClanahan Injury Update
Shane McClanahan, Tampa Bay Rays’ star left-handed pitcher, continues his difficult journey back from a series of injuries that have sidelined his career since late 2023. Most recently, he was pulled from his minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Durham due to biceps soreness—a frustrating setback after months of recovery from a second Tommy John surgery. Manager Kevin Cash indicated this soreness is unrelated to McClanahan’s previous triceps nerve injury but a result of fatigue, typical in the buildup process following such an extended layoff.
Despite the setback, there’s cautious optimism: biceps tendinitis tends to resolve fairly quickly, and McClanahan may resume throwing in “two or three days,” keeping fans hopeful for a late summer or early fall return. He last pitched in the majors on August 2, 2023. McClanahan himself posted an emotional message expressing his frustration and determination to return, echoing the sentiment of the Rays’ faithful and the wider MLB community.
Shane McClanahan Contract: Latest Details
The Rays and Shane McClanahan agreed to a two-year, $7.2 million contract to avoid arbitration in January 2024. The deal covers his first two years of arbitration eligibility (2024-25), with escalators giving him an additional $120,000 for each start made in 2024, a nod to his importance for the team and the uncertainty around his return. His base salary is $3.6 million annually.
| Season | Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $737,000 | Pre-arbitration |
| 2024-25 | $7.2M (2 yrs) | Includes $120,000 escalator/start in 2024 |
| FA Elig. | After 2027 | Still arbitration-eligible until then |
Shane McClanahan MiLB: Minor League Background
Drafted with the 31st overall pick by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2018, McClanahan’s minor league stats demonstrate his dominance before reaching MLB.
MiLB Career Stats Table
| Level | Games | W-L | ERA | IP | SO | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MiLB Total | 28 | 11-6 | 3.17 | 127.2 | 167 | 1.17 |
Who Is Shane McClanahan?
Shane Peter McClanahan (born April 28, 1997, in Baltimore, Maryland) is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays. Known for his electric left-handed velocity and sharp breaking balls, McClanahan grew up idolizing Cal Ripken Jr.—even choosing no. 18 in homage to Ripken’s legacy.
- Height: 6’1” (185cm)
- Throws/Bats: Left/Left
- College: University of South Florida
- MLB Debut: 2020 Playoffs
A first-round pick, McClanahan quickly rose through the minors with dominant stuff and impressive strikeout numbers. He was an AL All-Star in both 2022 and 2023.
Shane McClanahan Career Overview
Despite injury interruptions, McClanahan’s major league numbers speak to his elite performance when healthy:
| G | W-L | ERA | IP | SO | WHIP | All-Star |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 74 | 33-16 | 3.02 | 404.2 | 456 | 1.10 | 2022, 2023 |
Notable Achievements:
2× MLB All-Star (2022, 2023)
7th in AL Rookie of the Year voting (2021)
6th in AL Cy Young voting (2022)
Postseason Stats:
7 appearances, 1-1 W-L, 5.82 ERA, 12 K
Throughout his career, McClanahan has consistently been among the American League’s strikeout and wins leaders.
| Year | Wins | AL Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 11 | Top 10 |
| 2022 | 12 | Top 10 |
| 2021 | 10 | Top 10 |
FAQ
When is Shane McClanahan likely to return?
If his biceps soreness improves quickly, he could resume throwing within days, but there is no firm timetable for a major league return yet.
How many Tommy John surgeries has he had?
Two, with the latest performed in August 2023.
What is his current contract status?
He is signed through 2025 on a $7.2M deal and under team control through 2027
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and reports regarding Shane McClanahan's injury status, career, and contract details. The details mentioned about his recovery, minor league stats, and career achievements are subject to change as new updates are made by official sources such as the Tampa Bay Rays and MLB. The injury update and potential return timeline are based on recent reports and medical assessments, which may evolve over time. Readers are advised to follow official team updates for the most accurate and current information.
