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The 2017 MLB winter meetings are officially underway as the top brass of each organization get together to drive reporters and fans alike insane with rumors of blockbuster trades and ridiculous contracts getting handed out popping out of every nook and cranny.
The Tampa Bay Rays are sure to be active in these rumors as the Evan Longoria trade speculation is more rampant and ever, but the Rays third baseman has made it clear he wants to stick with the Rays for his entire career but admitted that might not happen.
"I think they have made it pretty clear that they want to cut salary, so I guess that leaves me somewhere in limbo. I think I’ve been pretty up front about wanting to be in Tampa (Bay) for my whole career, but I realize that my window is getting smaller to win a championship.
"If they decide to rebuild completely and give everyone up, then I suppose my family and I will adjust.’’
- In off the field, non player news, the Rays are suing their former concessions vendor, Center Plate, for a break of contract.
- Over the weekend, the Miami Marlins had no choice but to trade Giancarlo Stanton to the New York Yankees for a couple of low to mid level prospects and also Starlin Castro
- Japanese sensation, Shoehi Ohtani finally signed, with the Los Angeles Angels
- The first Rays related rumor of the day comes from Bob Nightengale
The #STLCards and #Rockies are aggressively pursuing #Rays closer Alex Colome in trade talks
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 11, 2017
TRIVIA
He has two plus-plus pitches: An electric fastball that sits in the 93-95 mph range and hits 97, plus a hard slider that he throws at different speeds. He shows an excellent feel for his changeup. He is a superb athlete with an easy delivery, superior arm quickness and strong leg drive.
The team focused on speeding up his delivery in instructional league. He has been so successful that he has little experience dealing with baserunners. His small frame is the only concern raised by scouts, but he has been durable and injury-free so far.
Hint: He was named the 2nd best prospect in his organization following the 2003 season