Tampa Bay Rays News and Links: 20 of 23

Rays News:

The Rays skid continues as they have now somehow lost 20 of their last 23 games. Once upon a time, this team was incredibly tough to beat when they put up five or more runs, and Evan Longoria could carry the team with his offense, but not even his incredibly hot bat has been enough to string together some wins for the Rays. The last time they were able to win consecutive games was back from June 12th to June 15th when they were able to take three in a row.

- It should come as no surprise that Evan Longoria didn't win the final vote, although he is certainly deserving of heading to San Diego, but this headline from the Rays official site comes off as passive aggressive

Not sure if sincere or not pic.twitter.com/DwPjB33yff

— Adam Sanford (@Adam_A_Sanford) July 9, 2016

- Rays fans, there's no need to fret, the Dana Eveland experience may one day return as he accepted his assignment to Triple-A Durham, keeping him within the organization

- Kevin Kiermaier is nearing his return and could begin a rehab assignment as soon as Monday

- Andrew Toles at one time was blossoming into a potential top-100 prospect for the Rays but off the field issues resulted in his release. After missing a year and a half as a professional, he made his major league debut last night for the Dodgers

Around the League:

- The Boston Red Sox made an early morning trade as they as they somehow strengthened their bullpen, adding Brad Ziegler for the Diamondbacks for two prospects

- The Pittsburgh Pirates called up one of their top prospects, Josh Bell, to the major leagues last night

- Bad news for the baseball world as Noah Syndergaard was pulled early from his start yesterday after pitching in the low 90's

- According to Jeff Francouer, players are wanting stiffer penalties for players who are caught using PEDs