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Rays stuff
Bits of news from the Rays.
By MARC TOPKIN
Published March 3, 2007
Thumbs up
C Shawn Riggans' rumbling, stumbling hustle down the first-base line to beat out a two-out grounder to short allowed the Rays to score their only run in the seventh. "That's what we want to be all about," manager Joe Maddon said.
Thumbs down
The Rays got a warm welcome back to Progress Energy Park - the air conditioning in their clubhouse was not working Friday morning, creating a saunalike effect and more than a few well-deserved grumbles. Plus, the field apparently wasn't in top shape. "That infield could be the worst," Yankees manager Joe Torre said.
Quote of the day
"We know it's important. I wouldn't bring all these regulars if we weren't playing this team. And they know it because not one questioned it."
Torre, on the George Steinbrenner-inspired battle for Tampa Bay with the Rays
Who knew?
During his sophomore year at Treasure Valley (Ore.) Community College, RHP Jason Hammel worked basketball games as the Chukar bird mascot.
Number of the day
283 Days since Jonny Gomes, who starts today in left, last played the outfield due to a right shoulder problem that led to September surgery.
Where's B.J.?
SS:3
The Rays plan to move B.J. Upton in the spring as a super utilityman. Friday, he played three innings at shortstop. Today, he is scheduled to start at second. His inning totals so far are above.
The 411
Today: Rays at Blue Jays
When/where: 1:05, Knology Park, 311 Douglas Ave. Dunedin
Tickets: $13-$24. Call (888) 525-5297 or (727) 733-0429, or visit torontobluejays.com
Pitchers: Rays - LH Scott Kazmir, RH Al Reyes, RH Seth McClung, RH Brian Stokes, RH Jason Hammel, RH Mitch Talbot, LH Chris Seddon, RH Andy Sonnanstine. Jays - RH A.J. Burnett
Info: (727) 825-3250
Watch for: McClung, the leading closer candidate, will be used in the middle of the game so he can face big-league hitters.
On deck
Sunday: Blue Jays at Progress Energy Park, 1:05. Rays - RH Jae Kuk Ryu; Jays - RH John Thomson
Monday: Twins at Progress Energy Park, 1:05. Rays - RH Jae Seo; Twins - TBA
Tuesday: Reds at Progress Energy Park, 1:05. Rays - RH James Shields; Reds - TBA
Wednesday: Indians at Progress Energy Park, 1:05. Rays, Indians - TBA
Marc Topkin, Times staff writer
[Last modified March 3, 2007, 01:16:16]
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