OAKLAND — In using the opener strategy, the Rays hope that pitchers used in that situation graduate from their roles — that openers become late-inning relief arms and bulk relievers become starters.
While right-hander Yonny Chirinos has been utilized mostly as a bulk reliever over his two years with the Rays, he’s building an impressive resume as a starter. Chirinos enters Saturday’s sixth straight starting opportunity against Oakland having logged a 2.67 ERA in his five previous outings.
On the season, Chirinos owns a 2.59 ERA in nine starts compared to a 3.91 ERA as a reliever.