Rays' Nick Fortes Sits Out Second Straight Game

Backup catcher Hunter Feduccia gets the start behind the plate against the Pirates.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:19pm

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Tampa Bay Rays catcher Nick Fortes will be out of the lineup for the second consecutive game on Sunday as backup Hunter Feduccia receives another start behind the plate against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Despite the back-to-back absences, Fortes remains the Rays' preferred option at catcher, holding a significant 268-point edge in OPS over Feduccia for the season.

Why it matters

Fortes has been the Rays' primary catcher this season, so his absence from the lineup for two straight games is noteworthy. The Rays will want to ensure Fortes, their offensive leader at the position, is healthy and ready to contribute as they push for a playoff spot in the competitive AL East.

The details

Fortes has not started the last two games, with Feduccia getting the nod instead. However, Fortes' superior offensive production this season - he holds a 268-point edge in OPS over Feduccia - suggests he remains the Rays' preferred option behind the plate when healthy.

  • Fortes is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Pirates.
  • Fortes was also out of the lineup on Saturday.

The players

Nick Fortes

The Tampa Bay Rays' starting catcher, who has been a key offensive contributor for the team this season.

Hunter Feduccia

The Tampa Bay Rays' backup catcher, who has been starting the last two games in place of the injured Fortes.

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The takeaway

The Rays will want to ensure Fortes, their primary catcher and offensive leader at the position, is healthy and ready to contribute as they push for a playoff spot in the competitive AL East. Feduccia has filled in admirably, but Fortes' superior production makes him the preferred option behind the plate when available.