DRaysBay: FanPosts

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- Rolando Arrojo (48% of the votes)

29- Fred McGriff (97% of the votes)

28- Danys Baez (66% of the votes)

27- Damon Hollins (52% of the votes)

26- Scott Kazmir (70% of the votes)

25- Russ Johnson (85% of the votes)

24- Tino Martinez (60% of the votes)

23- Carlos Pena (92% of the votes)

Today, we'll discuss the number "23"

The Candidates:

Terry Shumpert(2003), Jose Cruz Jr.(2004), Shawn Camp,(2006-2007) Matt Garza(2008-2009)

Terry Shumpert played in 59 games where he had 16 hits, 5 doubles, 2 triples, 2 homeruns, and batted .190.

Jose Cruz Jr. played 153 games where he had 90 runs, 135 hits, 26 doubles, 5 triples, 18 homeruns, 88 RBIs, and batted .242. Cruz was traded for Casey Fossum in 2005.

Shawn Camp played in 125 games where earned 7 wins, 4 saves, and sported an ERA of 5.56. In 2006, Camp was second in the majors for most games played with 75 (Rays single season record.)

Matt Garza was acquired via trade from the Minnesota Twins along with Jason Bartlett and Eduardo Morlan for Delmon Young, Brenden Harris and Jason Pridie. While Garza has been the Rays he has played in 62 games where he has earned 19 wins, 2 complete game shut-out (tied for 1st in Rays all-time history), 317 strikeouts (6th all-time), an ERA 3.83 (3rd all-time), was ALCS MVP in 2008.

So, Draysabay, I turn to you...

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "22?"

The Greatest Devil Rays to Ever Wear... #23

2009-11-19T16:40:19Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- Rolando Arrojo (48% of the votes)

29- Fred McGriff (97% of the votes)

28- Danys Baez (66% of the votes)

27- Damon Hollins (52% of the votes)

26- Scott Kazmir (70% of the votes)

25- Russ Johnson (85% of the votes)

24- Tino Martinez (60% of the votes)

Today, we'll discuss the number "23"

The Candidates:

John Flaherty(1998-2002), Greg Vaughn(2000-2002), Julio Lugo(2003-2006), Carlos Pena(2007-2009),

John Flaherty was traded by the San Diego Padres in 1997 for Brian Boeringer and Andy Sheets. Flaherty would only wear the number "23" for his first two seasons. Over his two year span Flaherty would play in 208 games, have 187 hits, 30 doubles, 17 homeruns, and 95 RBIs. Flaherty would rank 10th in sacrifice flies in 1999.

Greg Vaughn played in 332 games, 185 runs, 271 hits, 62 doubles, 60 homeruns (tied for 6th all-time), 185 RBIs, and was an All-Star in 2000.

Julio Lugo played in 505 games (7th all-time in Rays history), 283 runs (4th all-time), 550 hits (4th all-time), 107 doubles (5th all-time), 15 triples (5th all-time), 40 homeruns, 212 RBIs (8th all-time), 88 stolen bases (3rd all-time), and .287 batting average (tied for 6th all-time). In 2004 Julio Lugo ranked in the top ten in the league in games (7th), doubles (6th), stolen bases (8th), and sacrifice flies (4th). In 2006, Lugo was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers for Joel Guzman and Sergio Pedroza.

Carlos Pena played in 422 games (10th all-time in Rays history), 266 runs (6th all-time), 366 hits, 78 doubles, 5 triples, 116 homeruns (2nd all-time), 323 RBIs (4th all-time), 288 BBs (2nd all-time), won a silver slugger award for first-base in 2007, won a gold glove in 2008, and was an all-star in 2009.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "23?"

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "23?"

OTTOTD 11/19: LOL @ AL Davis and the Raiders Edition

2009-11-19T14:52:35Z

The Bruce is loose!

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The Oakland Raiders benched former No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell on Wednesday, handing the starting job to journeyman Bruce Gradkowski for the foreseeable future.


Gradkowski

Coach Tom Cable made the announcement of the change following practice as the Raiders (2-7) prepare to play the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Cable said this was not a temporary move, that his plan is to stick with Gradkowski.

Gradkowski is 17 for 30 for 163 yards and two interceptions as a backup in Oakland this season. He tried to lead a comeback last week against Kansas City before his pass in the final minute deflected off receiver Heyward-Bey's hands and knees before being intercepted by Mike Brown around the 10-yard line to seal a 16-10 win for the Chiefs.

"I thought last week there were some good things and definitely some things to learn from," Gradkowski said before the decision was announced. "All we can do is keep working and get better."

Gradkowski got limited practice time with the first team for most of the season as the Raiders worked on developing Russell. He got a few more chances last week and now will get the bulk of the time with the first team. He expects that to be a big help this week against the Bengals.

Oh, and I want Brett Favre to win the MVP AND come back next year. Feel free to light me up.

The Greatest (Devil) Rays to Ever Wear... #24

2009-11-18T17:41:44Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- Rolando Arrojo (48% of the votes)

29- Fred McGriff (97% of the votes)

28- Danys Baez (66% of the votes)

27- Damon Hollins (52% of the votes)

26- Scott Kazmir (70% of the votes)

25- Russ Johnson (85% of the votes)

Today, we'll discuss the number "25"

The Candidates:

Mike Kelly(1998), Ryan Rupe(1999-2002), Tino Martinez(2004), Charles Johnson(2005), Eric Munson(2005), Sean Burroughs(2006), Kevin Witt(2006), Kurt Birkins(2008), Dan Johnson(2008)

Mike Kelly was traded by the Cincinnati Reds to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for Dmitri Young in 1997. While Mike Kelly played for the Devil Rays he had played in 106 games and had 67 hits, 11 doubles, 2 triples, 10 homeruns, 33 RBIs, and batted .240 in 1998.

Ryan Rupe had 23 wins and 5.84 ERA over the 4 seasons where he played for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

Tino Martinez was traded by the St. Louis Cardinals for Evan Rust and John-Paul Davis in 2003. Martinez appeared in 138 games where he had 120 hits, 20 doubles, 1 triple, 23 homeruns, 76 RBIs, and batted .262.

Charles Johnson appeared in 19 games where he had 9 hits, 4 doubles, 5 RBIs, and had a batting average of .196.

Eric Munson played in 11 games where he had 3 hits, 1 double, 2 RBIs, and had a batting average of .167.

Sean Burroughs was traded by the San Diego Padres for Dewon Brazelton in 2005. Burroughs appeared in 8 games where had 4 hits, 1 double, 1 RBI, and batted .190.

Kevin Witt played in 19 games where he had 9 hits, 2 doubles, 2 homeruns, 5 RBIs, and batted .148.

Kurt Birkins appeared in 6 games where he had a 0.90 ERA over 10.0 innings.

Dan Johnson played in 10 games where he had 5 hits, 2 homeruns, 4 RBIs and fronted a batting average of .200.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "24?"

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "24?"

crossing over to the dark side

2009-11-18T16:09:56Z

For the first time I explored the area of 'superior' stats. I pushed past ERA to FIP and WAR. While it is still a scary place, I have had an epiphany that I'd like to share. Being an advocate for pursuing Wagner or trading for Soria, or Bell, there are two players that stand out the most.

Kiko Calero had a huge season last year. A larger season than I first thought. His 1.4 WAR was same as Rafael Betancourt and only .1 WAR away from Huston Street, Trevor Hoffman, and Francisco Cordero. Better yet, before his shoulder problems he had another 1.4 WAR season in 2006. His low salary and potential should make him a high candidate. Bill James also expects good things: 3.38 ERA 9.42 K/9, 3.4 FIP

Another guy who many here want the Rays to take a flier on is Joaquin Benoit. From 2005-2007, Benoit posted three consecutive seasons of 1.4 WAR or greater (1.6, 1.4, 2.0). Definitely worth a flier if he's healthy.

If the Rays have a little more money to spend, Rafael Soriano and Billy Wagner make the most sense to target. Bill James expects big things (2.18 ERA, 10.89 K/9, 2.65 FIP) from Wagner and Soriano picked the right time to put up a season equivalent to Mariano Rivera and better than Jonathan Papelbon (Soriano and Rivera 2.0 WAR and Papelbon 1.9 WAR). Soriano put up a career best FIP of 2.54 which was better than AL ROY Andrew Bailey and 9th best overall.

But the best trade candidate is not Soria or Bell, but Michael Wuertz, another favorite of many here. With Joey Devine returning from injury and the bullpen depth they have (along with Wuertz being in arbitration) he's a prime candidate to be moved in the right deal. If the Rays can find a way to get their hands on him, I'm sure they will. Pretty much pick any statistical category and he's among the top of the leaderboard. If you want FIP, he's 4th, if you want K/9 he's 4th (tied with Nathan), 8th in WHIP, and 3rd in WAR. Bottom line is, he's pretty amazing. It wouldn't surprise me if the Rays felt he was the best option to target to fit their philosophy of a closer-by-committee bullpen. And if not, he's the best set-up man available.

So on my perusal of FanGraphs, I learned a lot of things. Michael Wuertz and Kiko Calero, to me, represent the best options (based on ability, potential price, etc) for the Rays. I still wouldn't mind Wagner in the right deal (but if he's offered arbitration, I can see how that takes away his appeal).

So this is where my journey led me. Do you agree? Of all the bullpen options out there, would these be your top FA and trade targets?

Rosterbation In Full Swing for Crawford

2009-11-18T05:44:35Z

Via MLB Trade Rumors.com

Hot Stove seems to be in full swing about Crawford. Yanks fans coming out of the wood work in the comments section rosterbating over CC. Some comments are more insightful than others. I do not see CC staying with the team and in return I would like to see him traded to an NL team or at least a non AL East team. In return a blue chip catching or 1B prospect would need to be included with other sweetners to pique my intrest.

Where ever CC ends up I wish him the best, but, I am content enjoying watching him play while he is here. However long it is remains to be seen.

The Greatest (Devil) Rays to Ever Wear... #25

2009-11-17T12:09:33Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- Rolando Arrojo (48% of the votes)

29- Fred McGriff (97% of the votes)

28- Danys Baez (66% of the votes)

27- Damon Hollins (52% of the votes)

26- Scott Kazmir (70% of the votes)

Today, we'll discuss the number "25"

The Candidates:

Russ Johnson(2000-2002), Matt Diaz(2003-2004), Damion Easley(2003)

Russ Johnson was traded by the Houston Astros for Marc Valdes in 2000. Johnson played in 204 games where he had 144 hits, 32 doubles, 2 triples, 7 homeruns, 35 RBIs, and batted .265. Russ Johnson would traded to the New York Mets in 2002 for Rey Ordonez.

Matt Diaz played in 14 games where he had 5 hits, 1 double, 1 homerun, 3 RBIs, and batted .167.

Damion Easley played in 36 games where he batted .187 and had 20 hits with 7 RBIs.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "25?"

Poll

Who was the Greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "25?"

A Scorched Earth policy in Oakland: What would Tampa pay to acquire Kurt Suzuki?

2009-11-16T19:36:45Z

Greetings!

I'm bored.

A friend of mine, a fellow A's fan, said that he'd like to see the A's trade any and every vet off the current roster and load an already fairly decent farm system with even more prospects. I thought that sounded intriguing, so rather than waste my time over on AN talking about what kind of package the Rays would have to put together to get the A's to part ways with Zooks (proposals which would undoubtedly feature a decidedly pro-Oakland slant) I figured I'd come here to this bastion of Rays dedication to hear what you guys think would be a fair proposal. This is meant for fun and to wile away the hours while I sit at home taking care of my ill son. If trade speculation isn't your thing than thanks for checking out my post and enjoy the rest of your day. For everyone else... let's chat.

I've decided to set some ground rules before I begin.

Rule #1: I will not try to sell anyone on the merits of Kurt Suzuki. I'm just going to lay out the facts.

Suzuki is heading into his age 26 season and is under team control for the next 4 years. He will make just over league minimum in 2010. According to Fangraphs he was worth 2.8 WAR (not including defense) in both 2008 and 2009. According to this metric his defense was worth .9 WAR, meaning his total WAR value in 2009 was 3.7 Kurt bats right handed and has started 268 games behind the plate over the past two seasons.

Rule #2: Do not assume that this is happening in a vacuum. If the A's were to shop Suzuki the Rays would not be the only team interested in acquiring him.

Tampa just happens to be #1 on the speed dial. Please don't waste time trying to low-ball as I'm not interested in an unfair deal on either side. I'm not going to demand that the Rays give up David Price to land Suzuki. Matter o' fact, I'm not going to insist on any one Ray's player or prospect being a part of this discussion. All I'm going to do is tell you what it is I think the A's are shopping for in return.

So now that the rules out of the way, let me tell you what I think the A's would be looking for in a deal for Suzuki.

The Oakland outfield has far more question marks than answers. But let's be realistic here folks, if the A's are trading Suzuki they're looking at improving their team in 2011 and beyond. Carl Crawford is a good player but he doesn't meet the 2011 requirement, does he?

A quality SP prospect is always appreciated, but the A's have depth in Oakland and the upper minors so any arm you offer up is going to be nice but probably not jump-up-and-down-in-joy special.

The A's hope Brett Wallace is going to be their 3B of the near future. If that doesn't work out there's no one in the system who jumps out as a Plan B.

I don't think Billy Beane was bluffing when he said he was willing to go into 2010 with Cliff Pennington as his starting SS. I'm not Beane and while I've been one of Moneypenny's longest supporters I would mind other options. That said, I absolutely positively hate Reid Brignac's bat and I don't think he'll ever hit enough in the bigs to be a starter. You don't have to agree with me on this. I'm fine with that. I just don't want anyone to waste their time by coming up with a suggestion that includes Brignac as the centerpiece.

The A's have invested heavily at 2B, with Ellis in Oakland, Adrian Cardenas in Sacramento and Jemile Weeks in Midland.

Similarly, if Wallace doesn't work out at 3B the A's will have more than enough options at 1B in Chris Carter, Daric Barton and Sean Doolittle.

The Catching, ironically enough, could be a little thin.

The bullpen has more arms than they know what to do with.

So that's the A's depth chart in a nut shell. Now what will you give me for Kurt Suzuki?

OTTOTD: Kudos to Belichick

2009-11-16T16:02:48Z

I tip my hat to Coach Belichick for his decision to go for the short 4th down conversion. I'm tired of hearing "play the percentages" from the media talking heads. What exactly are the percentages? What is Peyton's track record of driving down the field with 1 time out and 2 minutes or less in the game? I don't care what the Aaron Brooks of the worlds track record is.

Peter King put Manning's chance of success at 35% of going 70 yards. Maybe thats right, though I would guess higher, especially at home. His article failed to mention what his chance of success is to go 30 yards. If 70 yards was 35%, I would guess 30 yards would be 60%. He is too good for the clock to be the determining factor. This was coming down to Peyton vs. the Pats D. The Pats defense was tired. 2 small yards and the game is over with 100% certainty. If they needed to go 70, the first two passes would have been to Addai and Clark for 15-20 yards a piece over the middle.

Say the Pats had a 65% chance of converting 4th down, which also seems light. If they fail, the Colts have a 65% chance of winning. The expected outcome would of a Pats victory would be 65% chance of 100% victory + 35% chance of having a 35% chance of victory which comes out to 77.25% chance of winning. Unless you think there is less than 23% chance of Peyton going 70 yards (King picks 35%), then you support Belichick's choice.

In football, coaches err on the side of caution on 4th down for fear of being criticized. I think Bill's process was sound with a bad result. The Pats D still could have stopped the Colts. Given how quickly they folded, only further justifies the coach's decision.

Thus concludes my football rant, what sayeth you?

The Greatest (Devil) Rays to Ever Wear... #26

2009-11-16T12:24:30Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- Rolando Arrojo (48% of the votes)

29- Fred McGriff (97% of the votes)

28- Danys Baez (66% of the votes)

27-(Still Pending)

Today, we'll discuss the number "26"

The Candidates:

Tony Graffanino(1999-2000), Andy Sheets(2001-2002), Jared Sandberg(2001-2003), Brook Fordyce(2004), Scott Kazmir(2004-2009), Delmon Young(2006-2007), Dan Johnson(2008), Gabe Gross(2008-2009),

Tony Graffanino played in 52 games where he had 47 hits, 10 doubles, 4 triples, 2 homeruns, 20 RBIs, and a .313 batting average. Graffanino was traded to the Chicago White Sox for Tanyon Sturtze in 2000.

Andy Sheets played in 90 games where he had 28 runs scored, 67 hits, 12 doubles, 5 homeruns, 36 RBIs, and batted .222.

Jared Sandberg wore the number "26" for one season where he had 29 hits, 10 doubles, 1 triple, 6 homeruns, 23 RBIs and batted .213.

Brook Fordyce played in 151 games where he had 31 hits, 6 doubles, 2 homeruns, 9 RBIs, and batted .205.

Scott Kazmir wore "26" from 2005 to halfway through the 2007 season. Kazmir had 28 wins, 1 complete game and was a All-Star in 2006. Scott Kazmir was traded in 2009 to the Los Angelas Angels for Sean Rodriguez, Alex Torres, and Matt Sweeny.

Delmon Young wore "26" in 2007 where he had 186 hits, 38 doubles, 13 homeruns, 93 RBIs, batted .288, and was only the second player in Devil Rays history to play all 162 games. Delmon Young was traded in 2008 to the Minnesota Twins along with Branden Harris and Jason Pridie for Jason Bartlett, Matt Garza, and Eduardo Morlan.

Dan Johnson wore "26" for one game that before he was places, and cleared, waivers and was placed on the Durham Bulls where he was later called up in September.

Gabe Gross played was acquired by the Rays via trade for Joshua Butler from the Milwaukee Brewers. Gross played in 242 games where he had 137 hits, 29 doubles, 4 triples, 19 homeruns, and batted .235.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player who wore the number "26?"

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "26?"

The Greatest (Devil) Rays to Ever Wear.... #27

2009-11-15T12:58:51Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- Rolando Arrojo (48% of the votes)

29- Fred McGriff (97% of the votes)

28- Danys Baez (66% of the votes)

Today, we'll discuss the number "27"

The Candidates:

Rick White(1998-2000), Jerome Walton(1998), Cory Lidle(1999-2000), Bobby Seay(2001,2003-2004), Geoff Blum(2004), Damon Hollins(2005-2006), Scott Dohmann(2007-2008)

Rick White wore the number "27" for his first season with the Devil Rays, in 1998. During White's one season wearing the number "27," White went on to earn an ERA of 3.80 over 68.2 innings pitched. Rick White was traded to the Mets in 2001, along with Bubba Trammel, for Jason Tyner and Paul Wilson.

Jerome Walton played 12 games where he hit .324 with 11 hits, 3 doubles, 3 RBIs, and 2 stolen bases.

Cory Lidle pitched in 36 games where he earned an ERA of 5.13 over 101.2 innings of service. Cory Lidle was traded to the Oakland Athletics, in 2000, in a three way deal that landed the D-Rays Ben Grieve and the deal sent Roberto Hernandez to Kansas City.

Bobby Seay wore the number "27" for his first two season with the Devil Rays where he appeared in 24 games and pitced in 22.0 innings of service. Bobby Seay would be traded in 2005 for Reggie Taylor from the Colorado Rockies.

Geoff Blum was traded for Brandon Backe from the San Diego Padres in 2004. While with the D-Rays Geoff Blum would play in 112 games, had 73 hits, 21 doubles, 8 HRs, 35 RBIs, and batted .215.

Damon Hollins played in 241 games where he would have 161 hits, 37 doubles, 28 HRs, 79 RBIs, and batted .242.

Scott Dohmann wore the number "27" in 2008 where he had an ERA of 6.14 over 12 games played.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "27?"

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "27?"

The Greatest (Devil) Rays Player to Ever Wear... #28?

2009-11-14T13:06:06Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

http://www.writingthepine.com/2009/11/13/victor_zambrano_trade/

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- Rolando Arrojo (48% of the votes)

29- Fred McGriff (100% of the votes)

Today, we'll discuss the number "28"

The Candidates:

Eddi Gaillard(1998-1999), Brian Rekar(1998-2001), Steve Cox(1999-2002), Jim Parque(2003), Danys Baez(2004-2005), Al Reyes(2007-2008), John Jaso()

Eddi Gaillard played in 14 games where he had an 3.86 ERA, 2 wins, 16.1 innings of service.

Brian Rekar would earn 18 while sporting an ERA of 5.20 and 3 complete games over his 495.1 innings of work.

Steve Cox played in 378 games where he had 1,239 at bats, 324 hits, 72 doubles, 2 triples, 39 homeruns, 158 RBIs, and a .262 batting average.

Jim Parque would appear in 5 games earning 1win and a 11.94 ERA.

Danys Baez played in 129 games where he had an ERA of 3.21, 71 saves, and was an All-Star in 2005. Danys Baez was traded, along with Lance Carter, for Chuck Tiffany and Edwin Jackson in 2006.

Al Reyes played in 87 games where he had an 4.75 ERA with 26 saves over 74.2 innings of service.

John Jaso played in 5 games where he had 2 hits and .200 batting average.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the greatest (Devil) Ray while wearing the number "28?"

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "28?"

Zambrano Trade (Part Deux?)

2009-11-13T15:30:43Z

Hey guys. I'm visiting from over at PinstripeAlley (as if my name wasn't a dead giveaway). Don't worry, I'm not here to gloat or cause trouble. Just thought I'd share a post about our dear friend Victor Zambrano.

As you may have heard, his mother was recently kidnapped and thankfully was returned shortly thereafter. VZ is a scary country for prominent (and in this case not so prominent major leaguers).

But what isn't evident is how they were able to secure the release and here are the details:

The Greatest (Devil) Rays to Ever Wear... #29

2009-11-13T12:49:55Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

3) Here's a fun little site to track Aaron Rodger's sacks.

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

30- (Still Pending)

Today, we'll discuss the number "29"

The Candidates:

Fred McGriff(1998-2001, 2004), Jason Smith(2002-2003), Reggie Taylor(2005), Russel Branyan(2006)

Fred McGriff was purched from the Atlanta Braves in 1998 and was the original first baseman for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. McGriff would earn 2074 at-bats (3rd all-time), 277 runs (5th all-time), 603 hits (third all-time), 102 doubles (6th all-time), 99 homeruns (3rd all-time), 359 RBIs (3rd all-time), 305 BB (1st all-time), a batting average of .291 (4th all-time), and was an All-Star in 2000 while with the D-Rays. In July 2001 Fred McGriff would be traded to the Chicago Cubs for Manuel Aybar and Jason Smith.

Jason Smith played 27 games where he had 48 hits, 1 double, 2 triples, 1 homerun, and batted .203.

Reggie Taylor was traded to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays from the Colorado Rockies for Bobby Seay in 2005. While with the D-Rays, Taylor would hit .182 with 4 hits and 1 RBI.

Russ Branyan had 34 hits, 10 doubles, 12 homeruns, and batted .201 before being traded to the San Diego Padres for Evan Meek and Dale Thayer in 2006.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "29?"

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "29?"

OTTOTD 11/13: Early Dose of Awful.

2009-11-13T06:09:30Z

I'm up and came across another winner essay from my literature class. Hooray!

Beat! Beat! Drums!

What Whitman is trying to say in this poem is beat the drums and blow the bugles as loud as you can. So loud that that you can here them through the windows, and doors. So loud that it sounds ruthless. Loud enough that it penetrates through the church and disrupt the congregation, disrupt the school kids while their trying to study, and the bride groom also. Make so much noise that the bride and groom are no longer happy. Even to the farmer make so much noise that the farmer can’t concentrate enough to plow his fields and gathers his grains. Play the drums as hard as you can and blow the bugles as hard as you can. Beat the drums and blow the bugles! So loud that you cant here the traffic or the rustle of the wheels. So loud that those who own beds and are trying to sleep cant sleep. No one shall do nothing. Disrupt everything and everyone; the bargainers, brokers, speculators, talkers, singers, lawyers, and the judge. Beat the drums quicker, blow the bugle wilder. Beat the drums and blow the bugle. Do not stop to converse with the enemy not even to reason earnestly with a person for purposes of dissuasion or remonstrance. Don’t pay any attention to the timid, weepers or those that pray. Don’t pay any attention to the old man who is begging the young man. Do not let the child’s voice be heard or the mother’s earnest request through the beating of the drums and the blowing of the bugle. Make even the braced frame serving as a support shake the dead while they are waiting for a vehicle to convey the dead to their respective places. So strong that you thump the drums and blow the bugles loud.

I believe this says no matter who you are make your voice heard. Yell and scream to the top of your lungs if you have too but make it happen. Let no one hold you back. Be so loud that you overplay any and everything. Play your drums and blow your bugle.

I am truly inspired!

OTTOTD 11/12: I'll keep it simple edition

2009-11-12T17:06:14Z

Seriously:

1) The Magic got beat bad yesterday, Discuss

2) Jamaal Charles or Lesean Mccoy

4) Link to World's most powerful people, Definitely not R.J Anderson

5) I never knew J.R Smith's real name was Earl.

6) Who saw Paranormal Activity?

7) Link to some great places to see

8) I need nine more words to make this post.

The Greatest (Devil) Rays to Ever Wear... #30

2009-11-12T06:16:04Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

97- Joe Beimel

80- Julio Santana

71- Damian Rolls

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)

68- Ruddy Lugo

63- Jim "The Rookie" Morris

62- Jeff Sparks

42- Jackie Robinson (Retired by the MLB)

12- Wade Boggs

6- John Flarherty

************************************************************************************************************

As voted by the Draysbay.com voters:

61- Travis Phelps (95% of the votes)

60- Jonny Gomes (61% of the votes)

59- Jorge Cantu (71% of the votes)

58- Wade Davis (54% of the votes)

57- Scott Kazmir (93% of the votes)

56- Tim Corcoran (50% of the votes)

55- Toby Hall (80% of the votes)

54- Geremi Gonzalez (53% of the votes)

53- Chad Bradford (83% of the votes)

52- Al Reyes (77% of the votes)

51- Trever Miller (60% of the votes)

50- Grant Balfour (64% of the votes)

49- Tanyon Sturtze (37% of the votes)

48- Joe Borowski (85% of the votes)

47- Victor Zambrano (94% of the votes)

46- Bobby Seay (57% of the votes)

45- Jim Mecir (67% of the votes)

44- Toby Hall (91% of the votes)

43- Esteban Yan (60% of the votes)

41- Paul Wilson (45% of the votes)

40- Troy Percival (52% of the votes)

39- J.P. Howell (66% of the votes)

38-Lance Carter (55% of the votes)

37-Seth McClung (65% of the votes)

36-Edwin Jackson (96% of the votes)

35-Dan Wheeler (54% of the votes)

34-Jeff Niemann (77% of the votes)

33-James Shields (81% of the votes)

32- Albie Lopez (55% of the votes)

31- Jonny Gomes (95% of the votes)

Today, we'll discuss the number "30"

The Candidates:

Rolando Arrojo(1998-1999), Jose Guillen(1999-2001), Brandon Backe(2002-2003), Mark Hendrickson(2004-2006), Dioner Navarro(2006-2009)

Rolando Arrojo had 21 wins, a 4.23 ERA, 2 complete game-shutouts, and was an All-Star in 1998. Arrojo would later be traded to Colorado along with Aaron Ledesma for Vinny Castilla.

Jose Guillen played 193 games and had 158 hits, 31 doubles, 5 triples, 15 homeruns, 65 RBIs, and a .255 batting average over his 3 partial seasons with the Devil Rays.

Brandon Backe had 1 win with 5.44 ERA while wearing the number "30." Backe would be traded to the Houston Astros for Geoff Blum in 2004.

Mark Hendrickson was traded to the Devil Rays by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2003 in the deal that sent Joe Kennedy to the Colorado Rockies. While with the D-Rays, Hendrickson earned an ERA of 5.05 with 25 wins and 1 complete game-shutout. Hendrickson would be traded in 2006 along with Toby Hall to the Los Angeles Dodger for Jae Weong Seo, Dioner Navarro, and Justin Ruggiano.

Dioner Navarro played in 410 games where he has had 343 hits, 68 doubles, 2 triples, 28 homeruns, and was an All-Star in 2008.

So, Draysbay, I turn to you. Who was the great (Devil) Rays player while wearing the number "30?"

Poll

Who was the greatest (Devil) Ray to ever wear the number "30?"

The Greatest (Devil) Rays to Ever Wear... #31

2009-11-11T17:21:03Z

Uncontested Numbers:

98- Jae Soe

70- Joe Maddon(Manager)