Friday’s 4-2 victory over the Yankees turned costly for Tampa Bay when right‑fielder Jonny DeLuca felt a sharp pull in his right hamstring while sprinting to third on a Cedric Mullins double. Two days later the AL East‑leading Rays placed him on the 10-day injured list, scheduling an MRI for Sunday night. The shift creates room for a fresh bat next week.

Victor Mesa Jr. received the call from Triple‑A Durham and started Sunday against New York, while Ryan Vilade took the other right‑field slot. Mesa, acquired from the Marlins on Feb. 6, entered Durham with a .329 average, two homers and seven RBIs in 18 games. Manager Kevin Cash plans to rotate Mesa, Vilade and Richie Palacios throughout the stretch. His speed also adds a late‑inning threat against lefties.

DeLuca arrived in Tampa Bay with a .269 line, two homers and 19 RBIs in 41 games this season, a modest rebound after posting .217 with six long balls last year. The hamstring and shoulder issues that limited him to 20 games in 2023 still loom, and his absence forces the Rays to rely on depth as they chase a playoff berth.