The Tampa Bay Rays finished within three wins of the first championship in franchise history, and their top baseball executive says the roster is built to get back.

After returning to Tropicana Field following Hurricane Milton repairs, the Rays won 98 games, posted the American League’s best record, and captured the AL pennant. Preseason projections had them finishing fifth in the AL East.

Erik Neander, president of baseball operations, said the club is close to doing what Milwaukee just did. His priority this offseason is keeping the core together. “A lot of it’s coming back,” Neander said of the pennant winners.

The biggest question is starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen. Tampa Bay has already exercised its option to keep him for $20 million next season, a notable commitment for an organization known for trading high-priced players. “We want to have Ras back,” Neander said.

Neander acknowledged the strain big contracts can put on a payroll. He said the team can make it work because its position players aren’t as expensive as they were in some past years.

The Rays also have plenty to celebrate this week. Junior Caminero is an MVP finalist, manager Kevin Cash is a Manager of the Year finalist, and reliever Bryan Baker is a finalist for Relief Pitcher of the Year. Shortstop Taylor Walls earned his first Gold Glove.

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