Hot-Stove: Ben Zobrist Trade Rumors

While the trade rumors surrounding Ben Zobrist continue to mount, multiplied in kind are the questions of whether Matt Silverman would attempt to move Zobrist before the start of the season, and who the Rays would get in return if he was dealt. Personally, I don’t see the team moving Zobrist until the Rays are firmly out of contention.

Six Things No One is Talking About as the Rays Stadium Stalemate Continues, Etc

It is incredibly important to get a feel for other’s opinions on this issue — especially those in the trenches. Sadly the local media has focused much of its energy on covering the city of Tampa and Rays’ point of view, only. Errant or not, here is my attempt to air the voices of others involved.

To Better Know A Catcher: Rene Rivera

But at some point between 8:30 Wednesday night and the moment I started to pen this piece, I had a change of heart. A question I dared ask myself, what if this portion of the trade was positive? I fully acknowledge that I had a change of heart, partly because of what I’ve read about Rivera — despite the fact that he’s now with his seventh organization in 11 years, Rivera is a solid backstop.

Let’s expand on that.

Rays Set Coaching Staff Under New Manager Kevin Cash

Former third-base coach Tom Foley has been named as the Rays new bench coach, while former Durham Bulls skipper Charlie Montoyo will take over his spot, and Rocco Baldelli will take over for George Hendrick — who accepted a position with the Rays as Special Advisor, Baseball Operations — as the first-base coach.

Hot-Stove: Wil Myers, Ryan Hanigan Headed to San Diego in Three-Team Trade

The Rays — unexpectedly — just completed a three team trade of Wil Myers and Ryan Hanigan with the San Diego Padres and Washington Nationals. The deal is pending physicals of all the players involved, and final confirmation from the Rays.