Shane McClanahan

Shane McClanahan will start on the mound for the Tampa Bay Rays against the Detroit Tigers according to Rays manager Kevin Cash.

Fantasy Impact

McClanahan getting the opening day nod for Tampa Bay seemed to be a foregone conclusion and is now official. The 25-year-old will be a strong option against Tigers club coming off a disappointing 2022 season in which they finished with a woeful .231 batting average while averaging just 3.44 runs per game.

Shane McClanahan allowed two runs, five hits, and one walk over five innings of work against the Astros on Saturday. He struck out just two batters and was charged with the loss as Tampa Bay fell to Houston by a score of 2-1.

Fantasy Impact

McClanahan was an All-Star and potential Cy Young candidate earlier in the year, but he has struggled to the tune of 11 earned runs, 4.50 K/9, and 4.50 BB/9 over his last three games (14 innings). Whether his struggles should be blamed on his recent IL stint or something else, McClanahan is still the Rays' ace and should have another great season in 2023.

Shane McClanahan allowed four runs, six hits, and two walks over five innings of work against the Blue Jays on Sunday. He struck out just two batters, surrendered three homers, and was charged with the loss as Tampa Bay ultimately fell to Toronto by a score of 7-1.

Fantasy Impact

McClanahan is now responsible for two uncharacteristic losses in a row. During that span, he has surrendered nine runs, four homers, and six walks. The southpaw remains a must-start in fantasy baseball but has seen his success diminish significantly as of late.

Shane McClanahan expects to make his next start after leaving Tuesday's game with a neck injury.

Fantasy Impact

McClanahan insisted that he was fine and said he could have stayed in the game despite the neck pain. It was described as a "tweak." It would be good news for Rays fans and fantasy managers alike if everything checks out fine with McClanahan and he does not have to miss a start.

Shane McClanahan was removed from his start Tuesday with spasms and tightness in the left side of his neck.

Fantasy Impact

McClanahan was removed in the fourth inning and was clearly not completely healthy. The team will likely evaluate McClanahan further and he should be considered day-to-day.