How the Rays Emerged as a True Contender This Season

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Rays Earned Belief Through Steady Growth and Unexpected Contributors

There was no single moment when it became clear that the Rays were for real. Instead, the team gradually earned that belief, growing stronger game by game, pitch by pitch and at-bat by at-bat.

The first week of the season was somewhat problematic, but the cold and uncomfortable conditions in Milwaukee and Saint Louis made it difficult to get a true feel for the team. Over time, the daily performances began to show that this was a pretty good club.

Unexpected contributors played a major role. Baker delivered a season that was difficult to anticipate, while Cam Boozer overcame significant challenges and developed into an outstanding, reliable left-handed arm out of the bullpen. Their emergence raised questions about how different the team might have looked if Baker had not worked out as a closer or Boozer had not developed as he did.

Victor Mesa Junior also stood out among the team’s young players. Acquired from the Marlins, he showed outstanding defensive ability, including a notable throw in the final series game. Looking ahead, he also brings a left-handed bat with some pop.