Tampa Bay Rays reliever Edwin Uceta experienced discomfort during a throwing session Thursday, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming season. The 28-year-old right-hander had withdrawn from the World Baseball Classic due to a cranky right shoulder and didn't feel great when testing it at increased distances.

Manager Kevin Cash reported that Uceta was fine initially but felt worse as he threw at longer distances. The team plans to have a doctor evaluate the pitcher before determining next steps. Uceta, who made 70 relief appearances last season with a 3.70 ERA, won his salary arbitration case this offseason, securing $1,525,000 compared to the Rays' $1.2 million offer.

Uceta was expected to compete for the closer role following Pete Fairbanks' departure to Miami as a free agent. The hard-throwing reliever has pitched for multiple organizations including the Dodgers, Diamondbacks, and Mets before joining Tampa Bay as a free agent before the 2024 season. His availability could significantly impact the Rays' bullpen plans heading into the regular season.