Jesse Crain, when he gets healthy, will help an already strong Rays bullpen. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) The Rays are on a hot-streak, but they are not getting any help from one of their All-Stars. Evan Longoria had the second-worst month of his career at the plate in July.

Jesse Crain an All Star relief pitcher was one of the Astros prized free agent acquisitions, the only problem was the team singed him after not pitching since July. Crain last season suffered an injury that ultimately lead to him having surgery. Crain just this week has started to pick up a baseball and start throwing again (not pitching). “It’s healed and everything, it’s more about getting that arm strength back and getting comfortable throwing again” Crain said. The consensus is the closing job on the teams is Crain’s to have, the question is when will Crain be able to contribute.

“I’d love to be able to get in to a game or two towards the end of Spring Training” Crain also mentioning that is a goal of his during Spring Training and he’d be surprised if he could do anymore. Crain would not give a date on when he will be back and if he will be ready for opening day but did mention he hopes it will May at the latest. The Astros could use a healthy Crain no matter where in the bullpen he lands, because when healthy Crain has proved to be a top flight reliever in baseball.

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