Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash revealed that right-hander Griffin Jax is scheduled to make a minor league rehab start Sunday for the Triple-A Durham Bulls.
The update, reported by Tampa Bay Times reporter Marc Topkin on X, gives Jax another important checkpoint in his recovery. He recently completed a live batting practice session without reporting another setback.
Jax has been on the injured list with right elbow discomfort since Aug. 9, making Sunday’s outing an important test before the Rays consider bringing him back to their rotation.
The right-hander was initially scratched from a scheduled start against Seattle because of the elbow issue. However, medical evaluations, including a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister in Dallas, found no structural damage, with the issue characterized as muscular.
Jax received an injection Aug. 11 to address the inflammation before resuming a light throwing program. His progression through live batting practice has allowed Tampa Bay to move forward with a rehab assignment rather than extending his absence.
The timing could be important for the Rays, who entered Tuesday leading the American League East at 75-49. Tampa Bay held a six-game advantage over the New York Yankees and 15 games over the Toronto Blue Jays entering the matchup.
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Jax has been a significant part of the Rays’ pitching staff this season. He owns a 6-9 record with a 3.63 ERA, 100 strikeouts and a 1.21 WHIP across 91.2 innings.
Sunday’s start with Durham should give Tampa Bay a clearer picture of Jax’s readiness and workload. If he responds well, the Rays will have another opportunity to reinforce their rotation as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
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