Rays optimistic Crain will get healthy soon

ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays picked up an All-Star at the trade deadline when they added reliever Jesse Crain to their roster from the White Sox for player(s) to be named later or cash.

The only problem is, Crain has not pitched since June 29, as he remains on the disabled list with a right shoulder strain. Nonetheless, Tampa Bay was willing to take a chance on the 32-year-old right-hander.

"We have a lot of faith in our medical staff here," manager Joe Maddon said on Tuesday. "I consider Ron Porterfield the best trainer in Major League Baseball. Once our guys get their hands on him, we feel very optimistic that we can get him back."

Crain, who said via Twitter that he was "honored to be given this opportunity," is scheduled to arrive in Florida on Wednesday.

Can't wait to join @RaysBaseball, honored to be given this opportunity!!

- Jesse Crain (@JesseCrain) July 30, 2013