The start of spring training games is nearly upon us, with the Rays scheduled to play the Phillies on Friday.

Clips!

News and Links

• Getting to Know — Emilio Pagan - Neil Solondz, Rays Radio
• Getting to Know — Ryan Merritt - Neil Solondz, Rays Radio
• The High-Five of Tampa Bay Second Basemen: No. 5, Sean Rodriguez - Chloe Stowe, Rays Colored Glasses
• Day 8 — Rays Spring Training News and Notes - Neil Solondz, Rays Radio
• Biggest key to Rays 2019 success? Getting some relief, according to owner Stuart Sternberg - Marc Topkin, Tampa Bay Times
• Rays journal: The change Tyler Glasnow made to speed up his success - Marc Topkin, Tampa Bay Times

Sounding Off

Quote of the Day

“All those guys and everybody could do everything they’re supposed to, but if the bullpen is not there it all turns to garbage. And if the bullpen does its job, and we’ve got a lot of pitchers who we believe can throw well, I think we’re going to be in really great shape this year.’’

On this date in Rays history

• 2009 - The Tampa Bay Rays signed Jason Isringhausen as a free agent.
• 2018 - As part of a 3-team trade: The New York Yankees sent Taylor Widener (minors) to the Arizona Diamondbacks. The New York Yankees sent Nick Solak (minors) to the Tampa Bay Rays. The Tampa Bay Rays sent Steven Souza Jr. to the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Arizona Diamondbacks sent Brandon Drury to the New York Yankees. The Arizona Diamondbacks sent players to be named later and Anthony Banda to the Tampa Bay Rays. The Arizona Diamondbacks sent Sam McWilliams (minors) (May 1, 2018) and Colin Poche (minors) (May 1, 2018) to the Tampa Bay Rays to complete the trade.

Happy birthday to former Ray, Johnny Field, who turns 27 today

Courtesy of Baseball Reference