30 Teams in 30 Days continues with the Tampa Bay Rays. In 2010 they finished atop the AL East, holding the best record in the America League with 96 wins. They also had the best road record (47 wins) in all of Major League Baseball. Unfortunately, that momentum was quickly stopped by the Texas Rangers, who were on their way to the World Series. Unfortunately for the Rays, there was a very low fan basis for the entire season, causing them to give away thousands of free tickets for post season games. Tampa Bay somewhat disassembled and then reassembled their team in the offseason. The Rays lost Matt Garza, Carl Crawford, Carlos Pena, Rafael Soriano, and Jason Bartlett. Their two major signings were Johnny Damon and Manny Ramirez. Bringing the two veterans into the game should help the team continue what they had in 2010, but with five of their best players gone, it may be difficult. They did keep star third baseman Evan Longoria, along with B.J. Upton, Ben Zobrist, and David Price. I don't doubt that the Rays will make the playoffs, if it's winning the division or the AL Wildcard, I'm not sure. The Rays have been more successful since 2008, when they dropped the "Devil" in front of their name, and went to the World Series, only to lost to Philadelphia. Joe Maddon, the Rays manager, is preparing for another season with the Rays by inviting them to his house to dinner each night. This is because Maddon's house is so close to the Rays' Spring Training field, and it was reported that he and B.J. Upton had a very nice dinner a week ago. Good for them! I wish the Rays luck in the 2011 season, and I look forward to the AL East in general.Tomorrow starts the AL Central, so be prepared! I was also discussing the Rays rules about the several catwalks they have in their dome, you would think that they would build a stadium that wouldn't have so many obstructions in the field of play. I look forward to a new dome or stadium!
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