Tampa Bay Rays Call Up Pitcher Matt Moore

The Tampa Bay Rays are known for being conservative with their minor league pitchers. With the Rays making a late run at winning the American League Wild Card, they have decided to go against their philosophy and call up starting pitcher Matt Moore.

Jerry Crasnick of ESPN has reported that the Rays will be calling Moore up to the majors. Moore will join the Rays' bullpen.

Moore started the year as the No. 2 pitching prospect in baseball behind Julio Teheran. He has had a phenomenal season in the minors and is now considered by most to be the best pitching prospect in baseball.

The 22-year-old pitcher has put up an incredible 1.92 ERA in 27 starts between Double-A and Triple-A this season. He was also among the minor league strikeout leaders, with 210 K's on the year.

By adding Moore to their bullpen, the Rays will get their first glimpse at what Moore can do in the majors. He has an outstanding curveball that can make hitters' knees buckle, and Moore has the ability to blow a fastball right past a hitter.

He should only get a few appearances this September, but they may be an early audition for a spot in the Rays rotation next year. If Moore pitches well, he may be able to start 2012 in the majors.

There is also another great opportunity that could arise if Moore pitches well enough and the Rays make the playoffs. He could be put on their playoff roster as a reliever.