Jamie Westbrook, who made his MLB debut with the Boston Red Sox last season, has found a new opportunity within the American League East.
According to MLB.com’s transaction log, Westbrook has signed a minor league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays and will join their big league camp. Primarily a second baseman with outfield experience, he will compete for a roster spot, aiming to showcase his versatility and secure a depth role.
Westbrook’s call-up to the majors was a long time coming, taking 11 seasons in the minor leagues before finally getting his shot. The Red Sox initially promoted him in July to address a need at second base, and he appeared in 21 games before being designated for assignment in August.
After electing free agency in November, the 2013 fifth-round pick is now joining his sixth organization in seven seasons.
“You spend that long in the minor leagues, you start to believe that it’s not going to happen,” Westbrook told MLB.com’s Adam Berry on Monday. “(It) just kind of validates what I’ve always thought of myself. I feel like I can come in and just, like, be me. I know my good is good enough now, so just do that. And I definitely have a new perspective on playing ball. I’m not necessarily trying to get to the big leagues so hard. I’ve kind of loosened the grip, and I can just enjoy the game now.”
A Massachusetts native, Westbrook recorded his first MLB hit, home run, and RBI during his brief stint with the Red Sox. In 48 plate appearances, he hit .150/.234/.350. He spent most of 2024 with Triple-A Worcester, where he batted .277 with 12 home runs, 24 doubles, and 71 RBIs while playing first base, second base, third base, and right field across 102 games.
