Ex-Reds Outfielder Jake Fraley Lands New MLB Home

Jake Fraley’s baseball journey took some wild turns during the 2025 season. He went from Cincinnati to Atlanta, and then somehow landed in Tampa Bay.

He started out as a promising everyday outfielder for the Reds. But 2025 brought performance struggles and nagging injuries that kept him from finding any real rhythm.

Now, he’s signing a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Rays for 2026. Both Fraley and the Rays are hoping for a fresh start and maybe a bit of redemption.

This post digs into Fraley’s path, his past flashes of success, and why Tampa Bay might be the perfect place for him to bounce back.

Jake Fraley’s Tumultuous 2025 Season

Fraley entered 2025 determined to shake off a rough, injury-filled 2024. Unfortunately, things didn’t go according to plan.

By midseason, he lost his starting spot with the Reds. After a tough conversation with manager Terry Francona and the front office, the team designated him for assignment.

The Atlanta Stopover

The Atlanta Braves swooped in and claimed Fraley off waivers, offering a new chance. But his stint there barely got off the ground.

He only played nine games before suffering an oblique injury. The Braves put him on the 60-day injured list in late September, and after the season, they took him off the 40-man roster.

With Atlanta moving on, Fraley was left wondering what might come next.

The Tampa Bay Rays Connection

Tampa Bay stepped in and claimed Fraley off waivers on November 6. But in a move that felt oddly familiar, the Rays designated him for assignment just two weeks later.

Fraley elected free agency, but ended up circling back—signing a one-year deal with Tampa Bay for 2026.

Why the Rays Took a Chance

The Rays have a knack for spotting undervalued players, and Fraley fits that mold. He hit just .232 in 67 games during 2025, but his career numbers against right-handed pitching are still solid.

Tampa Bay figures that their analytical staff and player development system might help Fraley find the consistency he showed earlier in his career.

Looking Back: Fraley’s Career Highlights

Fraley’s pro journey has included some impressive peaks. He arrived in Cincinnati in 2022 after the Reds traded Eugenio Suárez and Jesse Winker to Seattle.

His breakout came in 2023, when he hit .268 with a .348 on-base percentage, slugged 15 home runs, and played excellent outfield defense.

Even in tough seasons, Fraley’s ability to hit right-handed pitching has stood out. Add in his defensive range, and it’s no surprise teams keep giving him chances despite the setbacks.

The Human Side of the Game

Fraley’s 2024 wasn’t just about injuries. He faced a serious medical situation with his daughter, and that kind of off-field stress can weigh on any athlete.

It’s easy to forget that players deal with real-life challenges far beyond the box score.

2026 Outlook: Can Fraley Bounce Back?

For Fraley, 2026 is more than another season—it’s a shot to prove he still belongs. The Rays will probably use him mostly against right-handed pitching, hoping to play to his strengths.

They may also try to help him improve against lefties, but that’s an uphill climb.

Keys to a Successful Season

Fraley’s comeback will depend on a few things:

• Health: He needs to stay on the field after back-to-back years of injuries.
• Consistent Playing Time: Getting regular at-bats could help him get his timing and confidence back.
• Defensive Excellence: His glove and range give him a chance to contribute even if the bat takes time to heat up.
• Mental Resilience: He’ll have to put the past behind him and focus on the now—which is easier said than done.

If Fraley manages these things, the Rays might just land a low-cost asset who brings both defensive value and some pop at the plate. The one-year contract gives Tampa Bay options and lets Fraley try to earn a longer-term deal.

Final Thoughts

Jake Fraley’s path to Tampa Bay hasn’t exactly been smooth. There’ve been abrupt roster moves and plenty of tough breaks along the way.

Still, his past success and unique skill set make him a pretty interesting fit for the Rays. This team loves to dig up hidden gems.

Fans and analysts are watching closely. Is 2026 the year Fraley bounces back, or just another twist in his unpredictable career?

 
Here is the source article for this story: Ex-Reds outfielder Jake Fraley finally finds a home after dizzying offseason