Tampa Bay Rays News and Links: Nick Franklin Optioned, Plus Other Cuts

Yesterday afternoon things went swimmingly as they didn't allow a single run, let alone a base runner as Chris Archer retired every batter he faced and ended up throwing somewhere just over 90 pitches. However, most of those came after the first two hitters of the game as a sudden and completely expected downpour washed out the game rather quickly. This may actually be helpful as it allowed Corey Dickerson and Evan Longoria an extra day to recuperate from nagging injuries and Archer was still able to get his work, albeit not against actual hitters.

The big news came after the cancellation as Kevin Cash announced another series roster cuts as they dropped their roster from 50 down to 43, the most notable cut being Nick Franklin as the Rays have now exercised his final option. Joining him was Parker Markel, Ryan Garton, Neil Wagner, Johnny Venters, Luke Maile, and tragically, Kyle Roller to complete the list. Franklin will still be joining the club in Cuba.

Links!

- The Rays and O's should have heeded Kevin Kiermaier's warning...after all, he did take a meteorology class that one time.

- The Rays are heading to Cuba to play a simple exhibition game, but there is much more meaning behind that.

- David Ortiz left the Twins organization 13 years ago, and after more than a decade, he isn't over how he was treated there.

- In light of the Adam LaRoche situation, we learned about the Rays policy towards kids in the clubhouse. Plus, a team rule change about facial; hair in the minors.

- The Mets were somehow unable to work out a trade with St Louis foe Ruben Tejada, so he was released and immediately signed by the Cardinals anyway.