Rays Promote Pitching Prospect Brody Hopkins

The Tampa Bay Rays have announced the selection of right-hander Brody Hopkins' contract ahead of their game against the Houston Astros. To accommodate this move, Alex Cook has been optioned to Triple-A, and Michael Grove has been designated for assignment.

Brody Hopkins, a sixth-round draft pick by the Seattle Mariners in 2023, has been part of the Rays' organization since a trade at the 2024 deadline. He is the second member of his family to reach the majors, following his brother TJ, who played for the Cincinnati Reds in 2023. Although Hopkins faced challenges in Triple-A with a 5.17 ERA and a high walk rate, he has shown improvement since transitioning to a relief role, posting a 3.00 ERA with 16 strikeouts in nine innings.

Hopkins is noted for his impressive pitching arsenal, including a fastball that can reach 100 mph and a highly rated curveball. The Rays' pitching development team is known for maximizing the potential of young pitchers, and this call-up offers an opportunity for the team to assess Hopkins as they look toward the future.