RHP Fairbanks, Rays agree to $12 million, 3-year contract

Reliever Pete Fairbanks and the Tampa Bay Rays avoided arbitration when they agreed Friday to a $12 million, three-year contract that could be worth up to $24.6 million over four seasons. The Rays have a $7 million option for 2026 with a $1 million buyout. Tampa Bay's option price could increase by up to $6 million, including $4 million for appearances: $1 million each for 60 and 70 in 2025; $500,000 for 125 from 2023-25 and $1 million each for 135, 150 and 165 from 2023-25.