The Rays are back at Tropicana Field, and they're ready to make it their home sweet home. Despite the Trop's reputation for being aesthetically lacking compared to other ballparks, the Rays have always prioritized functionality over looks. With a record of 77-85 last season, they're eager to return to their humble yet effective arena.
Manager Kevin Cash expressed his excitement, acknowledging the unique challenges of playing at Steinbrenner but emphasizing the team's success and comfort at the Trop. He believes they're returning to an improved version of their home field, thanks to necessary repairs.
Erik Neander, the President of Baseball Operations, has been with the Rays for two decades and has seen the team's journey with the Trop. He now focuses on its strengths, stating that it's a place where the Rays feel at home and have constructed their rosters to compete effectively.
The Rays' success has always been built on pitching and defense, and the Trop has favored pitchers over the years. Cash aims to reinforce this strategy by hiring Kevin Kiermaier as a spring training coach and consultant during the season. Kiermaier, a four-time Gold Glover, will work closely with 25-year-old outfielder Chandler Simpson, who needs to improve his defense.
Simpson, who stole 44 bases as a rookie, will likely shift to left field this season, with Cedric Mullins signing to play center. The Rays have also bolstered their roster with free agents Steven Matz and Nick Martinez, and the return of Shane McClanahan after Tommy John surgery.
The Rays acquired infielder Gavin Lux in a three-team trade, joining a lineup featuring Junior Caminero, Yandy Diaz, and Jonathan Aranda. While they don't have a designated closer, one might emerge during the season.
Neander draws inspiration from the Blue Jays, who nearly beat the Dodgers in the 2024 World Series. He believes in the team's internal improvement and the potential for growth.
The Rays are the only team in the American League East to miss the postseason in the last two seasons, having qualified for the previous five. Manager Cash anticipates a challenging season ahead.
In other news, the Red Sox are addressing their bullpen, particularly the lack of left-handed options. Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow has signed Justin Wilson as a setup man and is excited about Tyler Samaniego, acquired from the Pirates. The team is also looking at prospects like Alec Gamboa and T.J. Sikkema.
Garrett Whitlock, who emerged as a top setup man last season, will represent the United States in the World Baseball Classic. He's eager to learn from pitching coach Andy Pettitte and improve his craft.
The Sox's ZiPs projections suggest they might not have a player hit more than 18 home runs this season, which would be unusual given their history. Marcelo Mayer, in better condition than last year, has been working out at Fenway South for several weeks.
In other observations, the Red Sox have an extra-large locker shared by Garrett Crochet and Aroldis Chapman, as well as Trevor Story and Willson Contreras. The team has also expanded its coaching staff, with titles like 'Game Planning and Run Prevention' and 'Hitting Strategy.'
Masataka Yoshida, despite limited outfield play, is expected to play left field in the World Baseball Classic. Cora described him as a 'below-average defender.'
On a lighter note, Valentine's Day saw the Red Sox with Ben Flowers, Kyle Hart, and Brian Rose, but none played for Bobby Valentine.
In other baseball news, Andrew McCutchen, a five-time All-Star and NL MVP, has sparked controversy by demanding the Pirates re-sign him. McCutchen, who has played for four other teams, compared himself to players like Miguel Cabrera and Clayton Kershaw, who called their shots at the end of their careers. The Pirates signed Marcell Ozuna, leaving no roster spot for McCutchen as the DH.
Rafael Devers, who saved two defensive runs at first base for the Giants last season, is expected to improve further this year. He's been working closely with new coach Ron Washington.
Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. made a cameo in Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show, showcasing his marketing prowess. Nationals president Paul Toboni took time to salute the baseball reporters laid off by the Washington Post, acknowledging the impact on DC sports fans.
Toronto signed Anthony Santander for five years, but he missed much of last season due to injury. Kris Bryant, already on the injured list with the Rockies, has a low OPS since signing a $182 million contract. The Orioles had a busy offseason, adding key players to keep up with the AL East.
Nick Castellanos' release by the Phillies was due to an incident where he took offense to being replaced for defensive purposes. Despite his poor fielding metrics, the Phillies ate $20 million to get him off the roster.
Happy birthday to Takashi Saito, who pitched for the Red Sox in 2009 and is now the pitching coach of the Yokohama BayStars.
