The Rays Tank: Opening Day Edition

"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring." – Rogers Hornsby

In case you hadn't noticed, it's Opening Day. Not much else really needs to be said. It's OPENING DAY. They've come a long way in 15 years.

via www.bestsportsphotos.com

Here are some fun Opening Day facts:

-In their 15 seasons no pitcher has started Opening Day in back to back years. James Shields holds the record for Opening Day starts with four (2008, 2009, 2010, 2012).

-In fact, a different pitcher started each Opening Day from 1999-2009. That's impressive.

-Juan Guzman, he of the two year, $12 million contract, took the mound in 2000, throwing 1.2 innings before injuring his arm and never pitching again. I repeat, 1.2 innings for $12 million.

• You want a comprehensive rundown of the Rays' pitchers this season? SBN Tampa Bay has it.
• If you all haven't seen or heard about it yet, www.aminorleagueseason.com is one of, if not the coolest things happening this season. Matt Lawell and his wife are traveling to every minor league park this season. Yeah, you read that right. Matt's a talented writer and will be writing at length about their journeys. The site will also have video and photo updates. Go to the website to keep up with them, and follow them on Twitter @AMinorLGSeason
• Call to the Pen has a pretty comprehensive preview of the 2012 team.