Brandon Lowe, the Tampa Bay Rays’ second baseman and two-time All-Star, has been placed on the injured list due to left ankle and foot tendinitis. After returning from a left oblique strain that sidelined him before the All-Star break in 2025, Lowe played in only two games before the Rays announced his return to the IL on July 22, with the move retroactive to July 20. This latest injury interrupts what had been a healthy 2025 season for the 30-year-old slugger.
Trade Brings Outfielder Stuart Fairchild to Rays
To compensate for Lowe’s absence, Tampa Bay acquired outfielder Stuart Fairchild from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for cash considerations. The Rays confirmed the trade alongside Lowe’s IL placement, noting that Fairchild will don jersey number 20. Despite showing potential in Triple-A, Fairchild has struggled to secure a steady role at the major-league level and will be seeking a fresh start with the Rays. His arrival marks his fifth major league organization in as many seasons.
Depth Options at Second Base to Fill Lowe’s Role
With Lowe sidelined, the Rays have several internal candidates to cover second base, including Ha-Seong Kim, Jose Caballero, and Taylor Walls. Each player will likely see increased opportunities in the infield as the team manages Lowe’s recovery and attempts to maintain competitive performance during his absence. The team’s ability to adapt will be essential, given Lowe’s significance as a productive middle infielder.
Background: Lowe’s Career and 2025 Performance
Brandon Lowe, drafted by the Rays in 2015, broke into the majors in 2018 but established himself firmly during his full rookie season in 2019. That year, he earned an All-Star selection and finished third in the American League Rookie of the Year voting, despite a season cut short by a left quad strain. Since then, injuries have frequently interrupted his career. In 2025, before these recent setbacks, Lowe batted .269 with an .800 OPS, accumulating 19 home runs and 50 RBIs over 86 games before his initial oblique strain.
“The Tampa Bay Rays have placed INF Brandon Lowe (left ankle/foot tendinitis) on the 10-day IL (retro July 20) and acquired OF Stuart Fairchild from the Braves for cash considerations. Fairchild will wear No. 20. (1/2)” —Rays Communications
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Brandon Lowe?
A. BOSTON — The Rays were hopeful Brandon Lowe would heal swiftly and finish the first half healthy. After four days of waiting, they put their All-Star second baseman on the 10-day injured list for tightness in his left oblique.