Lugo setting higher expectations

The Rays shortstop says he's happy to be back after an uncertain winter and wants to see an improved team.

By MARC TOPKIN
Published February 21, 2005

ST. PETERSBURG - There was plenty new when shortstop Julio Lugo strolled into Devil Rays camp early Sunday morning.

A new bright-blue Escalade truck. A new moustache and goatee. A new $3.25-million contract.

And a new attitude.

"We have a new team and we have to play a little different this year. Win a few more games. Take it from the beginning all the way to the end," Lugo said.

"(Losing) was in the past. This is a new year, and we have to go forward. I can never handle losing. We've got some guys here that know how to win a little more now. It's going to be tough for us because everyone (in the AL East) has gotten better this year. It's going to be tough for us. But we've got to find a way."

For much of the winter, Lugo didn't know if he would be back with the Rays.

There was uncertainly over their plans, because he was headed for a large raise through arbitration and top shortstop prospect B.J. Upton, 20, is close to being ready. And there were a handful of trade rumors, specifically involving the Red Sox and the Cardinals.

"I didn't know what they were going to do with me," he said. "You worry where you are going to be, if you are going to wear a different jersey or a different color hat."

The Rays decided to keep Lugo, 29, signing him for $3.25-million - making him the third highest-paid player on the team - and, even with Upton on the way, giving him an option for 2006.

"I'm here, and I'm happy to be here. I like it here. I can't say I don't. The people make me feel comfortable here. I get along with Lou," he said of manager Lou Piniella, "and all the coaches. I feel good here."

Lugo hit .275 last year with seven homers, ranking first on the team with 41 doubles (sixth in the AL), second with 21 steals and fourth with 75 RBIs. He also led the team with a .309 average with runners in scoring position. His 25 errors were second most by an AL shortstop, though 10 came in the final month of the season.

His goals for this season?

"More home runs, more RBIs, a lot more average," Lugo said. "All that good stuff. And a lot more interviews."

[Last modified February 21, 2005, 01:33:09]