Rays' Lux to start season on IL with shoulder issue

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (AP) — Gavin Lux's debut with the Tampa Bay Rays is going to have to wait. The highly anticipated arrival of the veteran infielder has been abruptly paused, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the team’s middle infield plans as they approach the start of the new season. While initial projections suggested he would be a cornerstone of the lineup, the organization must now pivot to internal depth to cover his absence during the early weeks of the upcoming campaign.

The club is placing the veteran infielder on injured reserve with a right shoulder impingement. Medical assessments revealed that the discomfort he experienced during camp was significant enough to warrant immediate rest and rehabilitation to avoid long-term damage. The move means Richie Palacios will make the opening day roster for Tampa Bay, providing the versatile utility man with a golden opportunity to prove his worth in the major leagues. Palacios has impressed the coaching staff with his consistent approach and defensive flexibility throughout the grueling weeks of spring training competition.