Shane McClanahan’s Return Bolstered By Rays Teammates He Would ‘Go To War For’

BusinessSportsMoneyShane McClanahan’s Return Bolstered By Rays Teammates He Would ‘Go To War For’ByTom Layberger,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I write about college football and sports in the Tampa Bay region.Follow AuthorMay 09, 2026, 05:00am EDTST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - Shane McClanahan of the Tampa Bay Rays pitches against the San Francisco Giants during a game at Tropicana Field on May 1, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)Getty ImagesShane McClanahan has been a big reason why the Tampa Bay Rays won 13 of 14 before losing in Boston on Friday evening. The 29-year-old lefty has made quite a return after he was sidelined for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. He went 972 days between MLB appearances thanks to Tommy John surgery and a subsequent nerve-related issue.Though there was noticeable inconsistency in his first three or four starts this season, which was not unexpected given the layoff, McClanahan has flourished of late as evidenced by a string 16 2/3 scoreless innings that he will take into his next assignment in Toronto on Monday evening. “I think I was guilty of, maybe in my first couple starts, just throwing,” he said. “Obviously, getting the feel back. Now, it is more of trusting (catchers Nick Fortes and Hunter Feduccia) and game planning with (pitching coach Kyle Snyder). It’s matchups and understanding what I do well versus what (the batters) do well. I am pretty pleased with my progression and want to keep this moving forward.”The velocity of McClanahan’s four-seam fastball has been moving forward, topping out at 96.9 in each of his last two starts. His average in 2023 prior to being shut down was 96.8. In the larger picture, the two-time all-star understands it is okay to have quick innings with those behind him in the field taking care of business. He does not need to whiff 10.5 batters per nine innings as his did in 2022, his last full season. “I think that’s kind of bee...