The Rays have traded outfielder Matt Joyce to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim for RHPR Kevin Jepsen. Joyce has been a fan favorite, but he never lived up to the potential he showed in 2011 — his All-Star season. Since he hit for low batting averages, increased strikeout rates, and a drastic reduction in power. The projected $4.9M contract (after arbitration) wasn’t worth the risk for Silverman and the Rays.
Author Archives: Schmitty
“It’s go time!” Kevin Cash Formally Introduced as the Rays Manager
The Tampa Bay Rays formally (read: FINALLY) introduced new Skipper Kevin Cash, in an afternoon presser at The Trop — hitting coach Derek Shelton, RHP Jake Odorizzi, and ex-Devil Ray Toby Hall were among those on hand in the audience.
How the Rays Are Playing Hardball…and Winning (Re-Posted From SOTS)
What St Pete may not realize is that it still holds all the cards in the Rays Stadium negotiations…and it could be the last time any city does for a very very long time.
Hot-Stove: Rays Leave the Winter Meetings, Rule 5 Draft, Etc
Despite the numerous conversations Rays’ representatives continued into Thursday — the last day of the 2015 Winter Meetings in San Diego, Matt Silverman and company headed back to St. Petersburg without the big bat they were seeking, and a second catcher to pair with Ryan Hanigan. Does that mean the team will head to Port Charlotte with the current 40-man roster intact? Not exactly.
St. Petersburg Stadium Deal Delayed a Week, Winter Meeting’s Trade Rumors, Etc
St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman announced a possible agreement for the Rays to explore new regional stadium locations Tuesday morning. While the potential deal should be considered a huge step forward, the addition of any termination agreement to a contract (or in this case, a memorandum) is a complicated matter — especially when you factor in some of the less-than-popular terms which would be set in stone pending a yes vote by the St. Petersburg City Council.