ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Drew Rasmussen allowed six runs in 2.1 innings against the New York Yankees on July 10. It was his worst start of the season. The Rays lost 12-4.
The 2026 All-Star entered the game with a 0.82 ERA and 0.61 WHIP in June. He leaves July with a 13.50 ERA across two starts, per FantasyPros data. This is a rare statistical anomaly for a pitcher teammates describe as “man or machine.”
Rasmussen, 28, is a two-time All-Star (2025, 2026) with a 7-5 record and 3.26 ERA this season. His reputation rests on extreme work ethic and detail orientation. “He’s great at working so hard to be good,” a teammate told the Tampa Bay Times. The Yankees’ lineup exploited his pitches in the third inning, collecting seven hits, including three for extra bases.
| Period | ERA | WHIP | Key Stat |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 2026 | 0.82 | 0.61 | Dominant streak |
| July 2026 (2 starts) | 13.50 | 1.91 | Season-high runs |
| Season Total | 3.26 | 1.12 | 7-5 record |
MLB.com noted Rasmussen was “unable to stay hot” against New York. The mechanical breakdown raises questions about fatigue. The Rays’ rotation, which also features Shane McClanahan and Bryan Baker, now faces a strategic decision. Can Rasmussen reset, or is this a turning point toward decline?
FantasyPros’ Nicholas Rodriguez reported the blunder as a “season-high” anomaly. Fan comments and analyst reactions highlight the psychological weight. A machine-like pitcher now shows vulnerability. The Tampa Bay Times’ Marc Topkin framed the narrative: “Rays All-Star Drew Rasmussen is great at working so hard to be good” — but this blunder challenges that story.
The upcoming All-Star Game, if Rasmussen is selected, will test his resilience. The Rays’ playoff positioning hinges on his recovery. For fantasy owners, the question is clear: buy low on a historically consistent arm, or sell high on a potential decline?
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What happened to Drew Rasmussen against the Yankees?
- A: Drew Rasmussen allowed six runs in 2.1 innings against the New York Yankees on July 10, 2026, his worst start of the season, leading to a 12-4 Rays loss.
- Q: How does this blunder compare to Rasmussen’s season performance?
- A: Rasmussen had a 0.82 ERA and 0.61 WHIP in June 2026, but after two July starts, his ERA soared to 13.50, a rare anomaly for the usually consistent pitcher.
- Q: What are the implications of this performance for the Rays?
- A: The Rays’ rotation now faces a strategic decision on whether Rasmussen can reset from this turning point or if this signals a decline, especially with teammates noting his vulnerability.
Extended Reading
Tampa Bay Times (Jul 12, 2026): “Rays All-Star Drew Rasmussen is great at working so hard to be good.”
MLB.com (Jul 11, 2026): “Drew Rasmussen unable to stay hot vs. Yankees.”
FantasyPros (Jul 10, 2026): “Drew Rasmussen gives up season-high six runs.”