March 3
It's time to adjust
John Flaherty might be a backup, or he might be traded. He just knows he won't be the Rays starting catcher.

Alvarez sharp in his return
ST. PETERSBURG -- Surprised by what he was seeing, Rays manager Hal McRae turned to his pitching coach after two pitches Saturday and asked if Wilson Alvarez was throwing too hard.

Around area camps
Giambi delivers with a powerful first impression

Age issue provides interesting angles
ST. PETERSBURG -- So far, despite rumors, there have been no birthday cakes waiting in the Rays clubhouse for Jesus Colome, no balloons for Wilmy Caceres, no choruses of Happy Birthday or Feliz Cumpleanos for Ramon Soler.

Rays tales
HOT-RODDER: When Dick Bosman isn't reconstructing a pitcher's mechanics, he often can be found rebuilding old cars into hot rods.

March 2
A win no matter what
In first outing against major-leaguers in about two years, the Rays' Wilson Alvarez just wants to pitch without pain.

Top prospects put on a show
ST. PETERSBURG -- Rocco Baldelli and Carl Crawford aren't likely to get many opportunities to start for the Rays this spring.

March 1
3 Rays join aging trend
Tighter entry procedures after Sept. 11 have revealed more than 30 age discrepancies. Esteban Yan gets younger.

Stable job brings smile to Sturtze
ST. PETERSBURG -- He left spring training last season content with a spot on the roster but less than thrilled about being miscast as a relief pitcher.

Feb. 28
Rays get glimpse of tomorrow today

Alvarez ready, and thankful
ST. PETERSBURG -- Two innings and 31 pitches. Carl Crawford and Rocco Baldelli are among the top prospects getting looks.

Exam shows nothing new for Hamilton
ST. PETERSBURG -- Back specialist Robert Watkins found nothing different when he examined Josh Hamilton, and the Rays say this is a case when no news is good news.

Feb. 27
A comeback kid worth hoping for
Jason Dickson's resume has an All-Star appearance, and two big injuries.

Feb. 26
Sharp focus helps in a variety of places
Russ Johnson stays ready for every situation.

Wherever he's needed, Smith is ready to play
ST. PETERSBURG -- Having started at second and third base in the big leagues and having played outfield and shortstop regularly at Triple A, Bobby Smith already was pretty well-rounded.

Feb. 25
Young pitcher grows from missed chance
Delvin James says failing to get called up last season taught him to keep working.

Hall committed to maintaining same attitude
ST. PETERSBURG -- Toby Hall has a new role as the major-league starting catcher and a new contract for about $210,000 signed Sunday, but he insists little else has changed.

Feb. 24
Rays' Kennedy 'on a mission'
A background of hard work fires the lefty's resolution to succeed.

McRae ready for righty-lefty games
ST. PETERSBURG -- One beauty of spring training is that you're allowed to change your mind.

Dome occupied; it's back inside
ST. PETERSBURG -- Had the Suncoast Home Show not been using Tropicana Field this weekend, the Rays might have practiced in the dome Saturday.

Feb. 23
Hoping for a big-league shot
Emil Brown has skills, and he's happy to have another chance to show them off.

Abernathy has Olympic spirit
ST. PETERSBURG -- Watching the Olympics has taken on a new meaning for second baseman Brent Abernathy.

Feb. 22
MLB: Rays victim of system
Officials say economic overhaul is only way Tampa Bay can win consistently.

Rays' McRae familiar with sudden aging
ST. PETERSBURG -- There have been several recent reports about players from the Dominican Republic who falsified their birthdates and lied about their ages.

Naimoli asks club to set an example
ST. PETERSBURG -- The centerfield wall serving as a backdrop, managing general partner Vince Naimoli addressed players, coaches and a handful of others who gathered around him before Thursday's workout.

Feb. 21
Dad fears Josh doubting future
Prospect Hamilton is frustrated by back pain. Rays hope cortisone shots do the trick.

McRae sets tone: prepare to pay price
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays' first full-squad workout at the Ray Naimoli training complex began more than 30 minutes late, but for good reason.

Vaughn reports dogged, defiant
Only thing the vocal vet is uncertain about is his future with the team.

Feb. 20
O'Leary gets shot with Rays rebirth
Outfielder hopes to bring a new hunger from Boston.

Hamilton injury still a mystery
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays expect top prospect Josh Hamilton to be in camp for today's first full-squad workout of the spring.

Feb. 19
Staying put and glad to do it
ST. PETERSBURG -- When it was finally over, Ben Grieve didn't know what to think about his miserable 2001 performance.

Boss likes what he sees so far
ST. PETERSBURG -- From the quality of the grass to the pitchers throwing in the bullpen, Vince Naimoli liked what he saw Monday.

Feb. 18
Reliever finding way back
The Rays and Rule V pick Kevin McGlinchy hope he's past the injury that derailed his career.

Cox not taking for granted that first base is his
ST. PETERSBURG -- The landscape in the Rays' clubhouse has been altered, but Steve Cox insists his view hasn't changed.

Feb. 17
McHale upbeat about Rays' future
ST. PETERSBURG -- The joke around town is that the Glazer boys and the Lightning suits managed to bungle their way to a significant accomplishment last week -- they made the Rays look good.

Torborg enthused about Marlins' hopes
When owners approved the sales of the Marlins and Expos by conference call Tuesday, it allowed Jeff Torborg just enough time to arrange some last-minute appointments, finish his taxes and rave about his newly inherited team before spring training began.

Vaughn: 'I'm coming to play the outfield'
ST. PETERSBURG -- For all the articles you've already read and interviews you've seen about the composition of the Rays outfield, Greg Vaughn has the answer.

Huff brings new focus to spring
ST. PETERSBURG -- The hair color has changed, and so has the attitude.

Feb. 16
Sounds of spring soothe criticism
Wilson Alvarez has heard it all after sitting out two seasons. He tries to ignore it.

FanFest weekend for Rays
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays will sell tickets, sign autographs, hold clinics and answer questions at the annual FanFest today and Sunday at Tropicana Field.

Yan arbitration case falls in favor of Rays
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays got their first win of the season Friday.

Feb. 15
Rays' goal: sustain
ST. PETERSBURG -- As his young Rays established themselves and their aggressive style of play over the second half of last season, the idea began to bounce around Hal McRae's head.

TV schedule long on glamor foes
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays' home opener against Detroit on April 2, a dozen interleague games against first-time opponents and every game against the Yankees highlight the Rays' television schedule this season.

Back troubles continue to slow Hamilton
ST. PETERSBURG -- Top outfield prospect Josh Hamilton is sidelined again with back troubles.

Feb. 14
Rays try to go forward by staying the same
Young team that finished strong hopes to improve as it matures, with starters mostly set.

Contraction list started at 18
The Rays were among the candidates, but team officials aren't alarmed.

Feb. 12
Caravan gets Rays out to meet public
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays are taking their show on the road this week with caravan stops throughout the area, including All Children's Hospital, MacDill Air Force Base and the Manatee Little League.

Feb. 10
Fischer readies himself for 'spring' without 'training'
ST. PETERSBURG -- It has been a mild winter in western Iowa, but Bill Fischer figures he hasn't seen the last of the snow.

McRae set to build on Rays' momentum
ST. PETERSBURG -- Hal McRae knows what he wants his Rays to do when they open spring training Friday: hustle, run a lot and get the fundamentals right.

What to watch for as spring arrives
Before spring training begins this week, here are some of the people, teams and issues to follow in the next six weeks:

Feb. 9
FanFest mix of old, new
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays' weeklong winter caravan will culminate with the annual FanFest next weekend at Tropicana Field.

Feb. 8
Alderson cites key issue as a positive for Rays
ST. PETERSBURG -- A top Major League Baseball official said Thursday the Rays don't meet the current criteria to be considered a candidate for contraction.

Feb. 3
Rays sign Creek for one year
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays are down to one potential arbitration case after agreeing to terms Saturday night with Doug Creek on a one-year deal for $685,000.

Feb. 1
Rays make deals with three young pitchers
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays on Thursday agreed to terms on one-year contracts with pitchers Jesus Colome, Travis Phelps and Ryan Rupe.

Jan. 30
Rays add veteran O'Leary to the outfield mix
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays made a small deal Tuesday that could have a big payoff if outfielder Troy O'Leary returns to form.

Jan. 26
Johnson, Rays agree to terms
ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays infielder Russ Johnson avoided arbitration Friday by agreeing to terms on a two-year contract worth $1.35-million.

Jan. 25
Nash still in jail 2 days after arrest
ST. PETERSBURG -- Two days after he was arrested on a trio of charges, including the aggravated rape of a 15-year-old girl, Rays prospect Greg "Toe" Nash remained in a Louisiana jail Thursday.

Jan. 24
Nash accused of rape, theft
Rays prospect faces life in prison if convicted of raping 15-year-old in Louisiana.

Like he can't afford to buy a car?
Randy Winn has helped the Rays win some games by hitting home runs. Friday night, he hit a halfcourt shot at a Los Angeles Clippers game and won a new car.

Jan. 20
Many places to go, or maybe no place
Rick Williams is a baseball lifer.

Jan. 19
Rays, Wilson agree: 1 year, $1.2-million
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays agreed to terms with Paul Wilson on a one-year, $1.2-million contract Friday before exchanging arbitration requests. Now they will spend the next few weeks trying to strike deals with four other arbitration-eligible players.

Jan. 13
Devil Rays schedule
All games start at 1:05 p.m. unless noted; ss-split squad:

Contraction could help Tampa Bay
Baseball is a mess. The scheduled start of spring training is a month away, and the unresolved issues are staggering, topped by the glaring absence of a new labor agreement.

Jan. 12
Rays individual game spring training tickets go on sale today at several locations
Individual tickets for the Rays' 13 home spring training games go on sale at 10 a.m. today at the Tropicana Field box office, Rays Dugout outlets at BayWalk and WestShore Plaza, Ticketmaster locations and by phone (727) 898-7297 (898-RAYS) or (813) 282-7297.

Jan. 10
Rays hire three in shuffling of minor-league coaches
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays on Wednesday added Richie Hebner, Xavier Hernandez and Brad Woodall to their minor-league staff and reassigned several others.

Jan. 8
Rays aim to lock in their kids
ST. PETERSBURG -- Much of the focus the past year and a half has been on cutting costs and reducing payroll. Quietly, the Rays also have been talking about investing in their future.

Dec. 30
LaMar says cuts in payroll won't cut Rays' productivity
Cutting major-league payroll is not the only way the Rays are trying to cut costs.

Dec. 23
2002 Rays schedule is heavy on the East
ST. PETERSBURG -- Two days after baseball officials authorized the release of 2002 schedules, the Rays unveiled theirs Saturday with one catch. [Schedule in PDF format]

Hart taking Texas-sized risks
John Hart is considered a smart man, one of the most impressive and successful general managers in the game. But lately many people have been questioning his sanity.

Dec. 19
State contraction probe stopped
Because of antitrust exemption, Florida attorney general can't demand to see reports on Rays, Marlins.

Dec. 18
Rays deal for infield prospect, discuss Grieve with Mets
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays made a small trade to add depth to their middle infield Monday, acquiring Wilmy Caceres from the Angels for pitcher Mickey Callaway. Whether they make a bigger deal with the Mets involving Ben Grieve could be known soon.

Dec. 14
Rays give up on 2, take chance on 2
OUT Bryan Rekar, Dan Wheeler. IN: P's Kevin McGlinchy and Steve Kent.

Negotiations collapse regarding contraction
BOSTON -- Thursday wasn't necessarily a good day for the Twins and Expos.

Dec. 13
Contraction delay could imperil Rays
The news in Montreal, at the very least, is a shade brighter. In Minnesota, compared to a month ago, it is positively radiant.

1999 was bad winter for Rays
Miscalculations made on expensive players have left the team out in the cold and wanting at baseball's meetings.

Dec. 12
Judge allows request for teams' financial records
Rays, Marlins must surrender material to state Attorney General Bob Butterworth.

Rays pursue handful of low-level trades
BOSTON -- While the Rays are dreaming about trading Greg Vaughn and the $18-million he's owed in the next two years, they are working on smaller deals involving the likes of Bryan Rekar, Doug Creek, Randy Winn and possibly Mickey Callaway.

Dec. 11
Looks like business as usual in 2002
BOSTON -- Baseball commissioner Bud Selig may have to wait 'til next year to eliminate two teams.

What to do with Grieve?
BOSTON -- The Rays are actively looking to trade their high-salaried veterans. Yet they dearly want to hang on to their talented young players.

Dec. 9
Financial constraints to limit Rays
Chuck LaMar can't increase payroll, meaning deals at the winter meetings are unlikely.

Dec. 8
Veteran Gomez stays with Rays
The shortstop will make $1-million next season.

Dec. 7
Amid MLB woes, Rays numbers are optimistic
The 100 games the Rays lost last season made them one of the two worst teams in the major leagues. But in terms of the money they lost -- somewhere between $4-million and $22.8-million depending on how you figure it -- they haven't done nearly as bad.

Nov. 25
Contraction has things up in the air
Here's how screwy the baseball world is right now.

Nov. 23
Rays are No. 1 ... on the Web
It's not often the Rays find themselves honored as baseball's best in anything, so even though it amounts to just a college research project, Matthew Abt gave the Rays a pleasant surprise last week.

Nov. 21
Guillen is off Rays roster
Rays fans might have seen the last of outfielder Jose Guillen and pitcher Jeff Wallace.

Nov. 20
Rays hire ex-Pirates GM Bonifay
Chuck LaMar believes no organization can have too many quality opinions.

Nov. 18
Rays seek to retain young talent
With a limited budget, one free agent to negotiate with and two players eligible for arbitration, the Rays appear set for a relatively quiet offseason.

Nov. 15
Bank chairman still after Rays
Donald Watkins expects response to his application this week so he can study finances.

Nov. 14
State demands contraction data
Attorney general wants to open teams' books as a step toward blocking the elimination of the two Florida clubs.

Nov. 12
Boggs plans to be with son, not in majors
ST. PETERSBURG -- Wade Boggs' resignation as Rays hitting coach in late October might begin a longer phase of his life than originally thought.

Nov. 8
Gary Shelton: Would it make a sound?
Suppose it had been us.

FSL sites are left in lurch if contraction occurs
Twins, Expos train in Florida cities whose economies could be hurt by contraction.

5 hurdles to contraction
With about 100 days until spring training, baseball has much work to do to implement its contraction plan

Oct. 30
Agent: Boggs is not done
ST. PETERSBURG -- The relationship between the Rays and former hitting coach Wade Boggs might only be on hold.

Oct. 28
Rays have no plans to buy improvement
PHOENIX -- Because they share a birthday, the Rays always will be measured against the Diamondbacks. Because they share a division, a spring base and the loyalties of at least some of Tampa Bay's baseball fans, the Rays always will be compared to the Yankees.

Oct. 26
Boggs quits as Rays hitting coach
After one season back on the field, the former All-Star hitter cites family concerns in his letter of resignation sent to Hal McRae.

Rothschild takes job as Cubs pitching coach
CHICAGO -- Former Rays manager Larry Rothschild was hired Thursday as Cubs pitching coach.

Oct. 25
Rays move fans closer
Team plans to close off upper deck most games, restructures seating to reduce average price.

Naimoli: He, Rays staying
ST. PETERSBURG -- If Major League Baseball officials fold the Marlins and Expos at the end of this season, managing general partner Vince Naimoli said the Rays would not be affected.

Oct. 13
Collins out, no successor yet
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Hal McRae's desire to reshape the Rays coaching staff resulted in the firing of third-base coach Terry Collins Friday.

Oct. 12
Rays' Hoover to Durham
The Rays outrighted Paul Hoover to Triple-A Durham on Thursday, allowing them to keep the versatile 25-year-old in the organization while opening a spot on the 40-man roster.

Oct. 11
Rays put schedule out sans guarantee
Team official says the schedule doesn't mean contraction's off the table.

Oct. 9
Spring swoon gives way to autumn surge
After a woeful Rays tenure, Vinny Castilla is revitalized.

LaMar pleased at second half
ST. PETERSBURG -- Chuck LaMar began feeling better about the Rays in July.

Oct. 8
Not a bad way to go out
Though the Rays lost their 100th game on the final day, they put together a terrific second half by turning team over to youth.

McRae, wanting his own staff, fires Fischer
ST. PETERSBURG -- It wasn't anything Bill Fischer did wrong -- and one could argue that he must have done a few things right given the improvement of the Rays pitching staff -- but Fischer was fired Sunday morning as the pitching coach.

Steady Sturtze named club MVP
ST. PETERSBURG -- Tanyon Sturtze didn't have overly impressive stats, but the Rays' most consistent pitcher this season was named their most valuable player by the local chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America on Sunday.

Oct. 7
Rays ready to finish strong
Third straight win over Yankees lifts Tampa Bay out of baseball's cellar.

And the MVP is: Hmmm?
ST. PETERSBURG -- The question is tough, but it must be answered: Who was the most valuable Ray this season?

Sturtze spoke up to get starting job
ST. PETERSBURG -- Sometimes keeping quiet isn't the right thing to do.

Future uncertain for Rays, MLB
Labor contracts and poor performances, both on the field and in the ledger, threaten the league and individual teams.

Oct. 6
Rays get more to build on
Rally produces another win against Yankees 8-4 and keeps a 100-loss season at bay.

Kennedy closes out solid rookie season
ST. PETERSBURG -- When compared to where Joe Kennedy started this season, it's all the more impressive to see where he finished Friday.

Oct. 5
Rays continue inspired ball 4-1
Nick Bierbrodt's strong pitching helps the team avoid its 100th loss, beating the playoff-bound Yankees.

Clinic turns into a much bigger deal
ST. PETERSBURG -- What started out as an idea for a baseball clinic to raise money for victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks has blossomed into a charity event featuring an impressive group of Tampa Bay area sports personalities.

Rays vs. Yankees
The game

Another season for SS Gomez?
ST. PETERSBURG -- Without a top-notch shortstop ready in their farm system, the Rays appear serious about keeping Chris Gomez around for at least one more season.

Oct. 4
Rupe shaky in final audition
ST. PETERSBURG -- He was sometimes erratic, other times magnificent but always a question mark.

Out of contention a fine place for rookie
ST. PETERSBURG -- Nick Bierbrodt is not bitter.

Oct. 3
Rays refusing to quit
ST. PETERSBURG -- Maybe the Rays are just too young to know any better.

Guillen putting on a strong audition
ST. PETERSBURG -- If this is Jose Guillen's last week in a Rays uniform, at least he can say he made the most of it.

Oct. 2
Sturtze hits double-digit wins
The pitcher who has given the Rays a chance to win more often than not is rewarded with his 10th win, 10-3 over Boston.

Flaherty says he's likely done for '01
ST. PETERSBURG -- John Flaherty was back on the Rays bench Monday night but that doesn't mean he'll be back in the lineup anytime soon.

Oct. 1
Rays rally but stay in MLB basement
A 6-5 loss in 12 to Jays prevents four-game sweep, but Tampa Bay may yet shed label of game's worst.

Rays pay price for pitching to Delgado
ST. PETERSBURG -- Carlos Delgado can't remember the last time the batter preceding him was walked intentionally.

Sept. 30
Rays remain in their groove
All facets click again in a 5-2 victory -- Tampa Bay's fifth in six games.

Lefty makes pitch to keep starting spot
ST. PETERSBURG -- More than two months after they traded Albie Lopez to Arizona and got rookie Nick Bierbrodt, it appears the Rays got a bargain.

Rays tales
MUSIC MAN: Nick Bierbrodt was looking for something to keep him busy. "I'm not a big video game guy or a big computer guy, and you can only watch so much TV," he said. So two years ago he decided to learn how to play the guitar.

Sept. 29
Big inning boosts Rays to 6-1 victory
Jays starter Kelvim Escobar gives up 6 runs in the second, and Tampa Bay starter Bryan Rekar earns his 2nd straight win.

Rekar wins what may be his final Rays game
ST. PETERSBURG -- Bryan Rekar knew Friday's game was his last start of the season. What he doesn't know is whether it was his last start for the Rays.

Sept. 28
Pregame procedure altered for tribute
ST. PETERSBURG -- It has become baseball tradition to have a local celebrity throw out a ceremonial first pitch before each game.

Emotional Rays return with a win
In its 1st home game since the Sept. 11 attacks, Tampa Bay beats Toronto 5-1.

Sept. 27
The final trip ends in messy 5-1 loss
Rays commit 4 errors, falter in clutch to waste solid Paul Wilson outing.

Poignant ceremony planned for return
NEW YORK -- Having been part of emotional ceremonies in Boston and New York, the Rays return home tonight to remember victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and honor the rescue workers in their own way.

Aftermath leaves Boggs shaken
Hitting coach and other Rays view ground zero of the World Trade Center tragedy through tears.

Sept. 26
A little joy returns to N.Y.
Tanyon Sturtze and the Rays beat Roger Clemens 4-0 as the Yankees host a baseball game for the first time since the attacks.

Reality better than Sturtze's dream
NEW YORK -- Tanyon Sturtze always wanted to pitch against Roger Clemens. Outpitching and beating him Tuesday night was even better.

Sept. 25
On deck: another wave of emotions
After playing in Boston last week, Rays prepare for first game at Yankee Stadium since attacks.

McRae continues to help Yan develop
TORONTO -- One reason Hal McRae made the surprising move to bring in Esteban Yan to start the eighth inning of Sunday's game was that he wanted to preserve the rest of the bullpen.

Sept. 24
All facets synthesize in Rays' win over Jays
Joe Kennedy pitches seven innings in earning a 1-0 victory over Toronto.

Rookie catcher keeps his good start going
TORONTO -- Paul Hoover was supposed to be in St. Petersburg this week, working out at the Rays' minor-league complex before heading out to play in the Arizona Fall League.

Sept. 23
Rays let another get away
The Blue Jays overcome a 5-0 deficit, and sloppy play costs Tampa Bay in 8-7 loss.

Powerless Rays make the most of doubles
TORONTO -- The Rays don't have a lot of power, and aren't expecting to add much. Instead, they're going to have to settle for the next best thing: hitting doubles. And lots of them.

Writers must choose among so-so valuables
TORONTO -- The newspaper writers who cover the team on a regular basis will be asked soon to make a difficult decision, one much more complicated than their usual dilemmas of whether to add bacon to a double burger or if a certain pair of jeans can be worn for a third straight day.

Sept. 22
Rays pledge a day's pay to relief
When baseball returns Tuesday to Yankee Stadium, the donation from players, coaches, staff is expected to be in excess of $250,000 to a fund yet to be chosen.

Rekar leads Rays to 7-4 win
Tampa Bay hits three home runs to rally past the Blue Jays.

McRae may stick with 6-man rotation
TORONTO -- The key to being a successful manager at times is flexibility, and manager Hal McRae is open to all kinds of ideas.

Sept. 21
Rays miss chance to close out Sox
BOSTON -- There have been times this season when it was an accomplishment for the Rays to be competitive. But like any group of kids there are things they have to learn as they grow up, and high on that to-do list is winning close games.

Rays daily report
The game

McRae dreams of 'a chance to win'
BOSTON -- Hal McRae has a dream. Well, okay, not a dream. But hope, and good wishes.

Up next: Blue Jays
SCOUTING REPORT: What was supposed to be a season of promise quickly went awry for the Jays, who followed a 16-9 April with a 10-18 May and a 12-15 June. By July 30 they were a season-high 10 games worse than .500.

Sept. 20
Rays' Wilson resumes his impressive run
On emotional night, starter stifles Boston through 6 in 12-2 win.

McRae needs a sign Rupe can help in '02
BOSTON -- Hal McRae wants to see Ryan Rupe pitch tonight. Actually, he wants to see him pitch a lot tonight.

Sept. 19
Just not the same game
Fenway faithful reserve energy for shows of patriotism as Rays, Red Sox return.

Sturtze keeps focus despite friend's loss
BOSTON -- Tanyon Sturtze insisted location was his problem Tuesday, not emotion.

Sept. 18
The 'show' goes on
Rays return to field tonight in Boston but fear remains for players, families.

Mental strain concerns McRae
ST. PETERSBURG -- Manager Hal McRae doesn't expect the Rays to show any physical effects when they resume play tonight in Boston after an eight-day layoff.

Sept. 17
Sturtze faces emotions in mound return
Rays right-hander to pitch in his hometown, where a lifelong friend lost a loved one to attacks.

Sept. 16
McRae turning to the running game
ST. PETERSBURG -- It has been obvious in the past few months that Hal McRae and the Rays have gotten better results by using different players. But it also is important to note they have been playing differently.

Rays briefs
Timing the priority as players renew workouts

Rays' tales
THE DO RUN-RUN: With 22 steals in 27 attempts, Jason Tyner is closing in on Miguel Cairo's team record of 28 stolen bases. Tyner has larger larceny in mind for the future.

Sept. 15
Rays must wait 1 more day
Monday's scheduled game against Yankees is moved to final series of the season.

Sept. 14
Delay lasts longer
The Rays will resume play Monday against the Yankees at the Trop.

Rupe misses workout
ST. PETERSBURG -- When the Rays worked out Thursday at Tropicana Field, all but one player showed.

Sept. 13
Tests show Flaherty has herniated disc
ST. PETERSBURG -- An MRI and bone scan performed Monday by a Rays back specialist revealed a herniated disc in catcher John Flaherty's neck.

Sept. 12
Call from mom puts Guillen at ease
Outfielder's mother, a NYC resident, is fine. But Guillen and Rays remain shaken.

Baseball season is on hold
All games are suspended with no indication of when play will resume.

Sept. 11
All potential 2002 schedules include Rays
CHICAGO -- Major League Baseball officials are planning on a team in Tampa Bay next season.

Rays cite plusses in the minors
A tumultuous 2001 filters from the top, but the organization focuses on its advances.

Gomez, Rays look to extend relationship
Chris Gomez was looking for a place to re-establish himself as an everyday player. The Rays were looking for a shortstop to solidify their infield.

Sept. 10
It's a loss, but it's progress, Rays say
After three blowouts, a 4-3 loss to Oakland in 13 innings encourages manager Hal McRae.

Sprain a relief to Abernathy
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Second baseman Brent Abernathy may be sidelined for a few days with a painful left ankle sprain.

Sept. 9
After loss, McRae pleads for better pitching
Nick Bierbrodt and Rays relievers are shelled by the A's 10-4, the third straight poor outing by a starter.

With Flaherty hurt, Rays call up Hoover
OAKLAND, Calif. -- A painful pinching sensation in the back of John Flaherty's neck left the Rays in something of a pinch Friday night with no backup catcher.

McRae looks to future when he leaves Yan in
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Hal McRae can feel your pain.

Rays tales
GOING DEEP: Greg Vaughn hit 50 homers for the Padres in 1998, but even he can't relate to what his good friend, Barry Bonds, has accomplished in hitting 60. "Fifty took everything I had," Vaughn said. "Last game of the season, last at-bat, two outs, two strikes."

Sept. 8
Hot A's pound Rays
Oakland proves it's playoff-ready in a 9-3 win over Tampa Bay.

Ex-Rays thrive, but McRae not surprised
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Vinny Castilla, enjoying a remarkable renaissance, is playing a key role in Houston's bid for the NL Central title. Albie Lopez has helped pitch Arizona to the NL West lead. Fred McGriff is trying to keep the Cubs atop the wild-card race. Gerald Williams is a reserve with the soon-to-be AL East champion Yankees.

Slump stumps Grieve
The Rays outfielder struggles to swing the bat aggressively.

Sept. 7
McRae tells Grieve to take more swings
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Ben Grieve has been striking out at a record pace. As a remedy, manager Hal McRae wants him to be more aggressive.

Sept. 6
Mariners reassert their dominance over Rays
Seattle rallies from 4-0 and 6-3 deficits for a 12-6 victory.

On verge of a fold, Rays show signs of growth
Big 10th Tuesday helps Tampa Bay avoid repeat of previous night's letdown.

Pitchers auditioning for jobs next season
SEATTLE -- Hal McRae's opinions of players, he reminds often, are subject to change.

Sept. 5
Rays delay No. 100 for M's
After blowing a 1-0 lead, Tampa Bay ties it in the ninth, then scores six in the 10th for an 8-3 win, its 50th of the season.

Huff learns lesson: Just relax, baby
SEATTLE -- Aubrey Huff said he learned something during his 12-day exile to the minors that should greatly help his performance in the big leagues.

Should-have-beens frustrate McRae
SEATTLE -- As frustrating and disappointing as it was to lose Monday's game 3-2 in the 11th inning, manager Hal McRae seemed more concerned with how the Rays failed to win it in the 10th.

Sept. 4
One run to tie, one to lose it for Rays
A 10th-inning Tampa Bay run doesn't hold up as Seattle scores in the 10th and again in the 11th for a 3-2 win.

Rays to be frugal with their callups
SEATTLE -- The Rays today will add Aubrey Huff and Jason Standridge to the roster, but apparently no one else.

Fast rise surprises Sandberg most of all
Third baseman has reached majors from Double A in four months and has a chance to start for the Rays next season.

Sept. 3
Oakland's Mulder mows down Rays
Left-hander pitches 4-hitter in A's 3-1 win, giving Tampa Bay a 5-7 homestand.

Up next: Mariners
10:05 tonight, 10:05 Tuesday, 10:05 Wednesday

Six-man rotation may be here to stay
ST. PETERSBURG -- Manager Hal McRae hinted Sunday that the Rays might stick with a six-man rotation for the rest of the season and possibly into next season.

Sept. 2
Rays' new identity: comeback kids
Tampa Bay hits for power, runs well and strikes out 14 A's in rallying to win 8-6.

A Rays fan takes back his boos
I was one of the lucky ones to attend the Cal Ripken party at the Trop on Aug. 23. The crowd was electrified with emotion, cheer after cheer echoed through the 30,000. Ripken is a fine example of a sports icon for all to admire, young and old.

Vaughn out 4-5 days with hamstring pull
ST. PETERSBURG -- A spectacular diving catch by outfielder Greg Vaughn prevented the A's from scoring in the third inning Saturday, but could end up costing the Rays a few runs of their own.

McRae wants to see hunger to play in '02
ST. PETERSBURG -- Hal McRae has been remarkably calm and patient and relatively positive during this trying season. But as thoughts start drifting toward next year, he has a bit of an edge in his voice and something of a warning for the young players who again will make up the core of the squad.

Sept. 1
A's win 9-5, give Rays lesson in comeback
Tampa Bay learns how winners act -- and rally.

Brazelton: Let learning begin
Rays draft pick joins team and looks forward to watching how major-leaguers work.

Few certainties as Rays begin call-ups
ST. PETERSBURG -- Teams can begin expanding their rosters today, but the Rays still are deciding which players will be brought up to the majors for the final month.

Aug. 31
With loss, Rays look at future
Tampa Bay is out of playoff contention after falling to Mariners 4-0.

Vaughn frustrated with umpire's calls
ST. PETERSBURG -- Greg Vaughn is willing to expand his strike zone slightly in any direction.

Aug. 30
The real M's on display for Rays
Seattle snaps a two-game skid with a 5-2 victory, though Tampa Bay still can end the Mariners' road series win streak at 26.

Rookie catcher Hall named IL MVP
ST. PETERSBURG -- When he got a call from Rays general manager Chuck LaMar on Wednesday, rookie catcher Toby Hall wasn't exactly sure what he was about to hear.

Aug. 29
Mighty M's no match for Rays
Tampa Bay romps on all-around effort typical of Seattle.

They mingled, joked, kept their shirts on
ST. PETERSBURG -- Legendary Cubs announcer Harry Caray was known for, among many things, calling games from the centerfield bleachers at Wrigley Field.

McRae wants to see jewelry fade away
ST. PETERSBURG -- Hal McRae is not an earring guy.

Aug. 28
Kids eager to tackle roughest stretch
ST. PETERSBURG -- Now might be the appropriate time to close your eyes, wait four weeks, then check back to see if the Rays still have a pulse.

Aug. 27
Ex-Ray gets the best of near-White Sock
Jose Canseco's homer off rookie Bobby Seay lifts Chicago to a 3-2 win.

Standridge demoted knowing it'll be brief
ST. PETERSBURG -- Jason Standridge left the Rays clubhouse Sunday afternoon with a smile and a few belongings.

Aug. 26
Brazelton agrees, will join Rays soon
No. 1 pick's $4.8-million deal includes a spot on roster for final month of season.

Alvarez will finish the year on the DL
ST. PETERSBURG -- Wilson Alvarez is done -- again.

Vaughn, weather shower Rays with good fortune
Power outage due to storm helps Joe Kennedy win 8-4 as Greg Vaughn breaks out of a slump.

Rumors thrust team into contraction mix
ST. PETERSBURG -- As long as the Rays keep losing, there will be questions about the ability of the players and the decisionmakers. And until they get straightened out off the field, there will be concerns about the viability of the franchise.

Rays tales
QUITE A CATCH: The movie Summer Catch, which opened Friday, is sure to generate interest in the Cape Cod League, where top college players annually congregate, living with host families, doing odd jobs during the day and playing serious games at night.

Aug. 25
Sturtze pays for mistake to Sox
Two pitches to Paul Konerko, rally-stopping steal attempt cost Rays.

Roster move leaves Sandberg relaxed
ST. PETERSBURG -- Now that he's been around a couple weeks, Jared Sandberg might even let you see him smile.

Aug. 24
Rays generous to Ripken, O's
Tampa Bay gives in a pregame ceremony honoring Cal Ripken, then gives again in its 7-4 loss to Baltimore.

Cal shows every sign of a legend
ST. PETERSBURG -- The stampede is on a tight schedule. It begins at 5:15 p.m. and should be over by 5:16 p.m., give or take 30 seconds. If you're stuck behind the elderly woman with the cane, you haven't a prayer.

Brazelton reviewing offer
ST. PETERSBURG -- Having made their pitch to top pick Dewon Brazelton in lengthy negotiating sessions over the past week, the Rays still are waiting for a response.

Alvarez meets with team doctors
ST. PETERSBURG -- Just when it looked like Wilson Alvarez would return next month, the pitcher has had another setback with his surgically repaired left shoulder.

Aug. 23
No quit in the Rays' kids
Jason Tyner's two-out single in the ninth inning caps a rally from six runs down as Tampa Bay stuns the Orioles 11-10.

Saying goodbye to Cal
Here's what the Rays have planned for today's series finale against the Orioles, Cal Ripken's final game at Tropicana Field. The third baseman is expected to be in the lineup when the game starts about 7:35 p.m.

Rays waiting for an answer from top pick
ST. PETERSBURG -- Talks with top draft pick Dewon Brazelton came to a standstill Wednesday night.

Tyner thrills Rays with all-out play
ST. PETERSBURG -- He slides over bullpen mounds and into folding chairs because "you have nothing to lose."

Aug. 22
8-4 win sparks Rays of hope
Up-and-down victory over Orioles boosts spirits for Tampa Bay, which quietly has had a winning month.

Talks with Brazelton are nearing an end
ST. PETERSBURG -- Talks continued with top draft pick Dewon Brazelton on Tuesday amid indications that time for a decision is growing near.

Aug. 21
Kids help McRae keep energy high
Seventy-one losses into his managerial tenure, and with more than five weeks remaining in the season, Hal McRae still feels vibrant.

Top pick skips class as sides keep negotiating
The Rays still are talking with top draft pick Dewon Brazelton.

Saying goodbye to Cal
Here's what the Rays have planned for their series finale Thursday against the Orioles, Cal Ripken's final game at Tropicana Field:

Aug. 20
Kennedy is masterful through pain
Rookie goes six strong after having ankle taped as Rays improve to 6-1 vs. Twins.

6-man staff planned upon Rekar's return
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Rays will use a six-man rotation at least until the roster limit expands from 25 to 40 Sept. 1, manager Hal McRae said Sunday.

Agent says Brazelton plans to attend class
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays made progress Sunday in their negotiations with top draft pick Dewon Brazelton, but it may not have been enough to keep the talented right-handed pitcher from returning to school.

Aug. 19
Twins sweat out skid-snapping win
Rays rally for three in ninth before falling 6-4, their first loss in six games to Minnesota.

Flaherty adapts to spot starting
MINNEAPOLIS -- The trick to hitting well as a backup, Rays catcher John Flaherty has learned the past month, is constant adjustment.

Rays tales
THE IRONMAN COMETH: Tropicana Field is the next stop on Cal Ripken's farewell tour, and for some of the Rays there will be some special goodbyes.

Call-ups reflect focus on upside, not stats
The past few times the Rays needed pitching, they bypassed minor-leaguers with more impressive stats, such as Mickey Callaway, Travis Harper and Brian Rose, and went for the ones with stuff, such as Jesus Colome, Victor Zambrano, Jason Standridge and Bobby Seay.

Aug. 18
Rays regain stride in a 9-4 win over Twins
Tanyon Sturtze leads Tampa Bay to its fifth straight victory in the past week over fast-falling Minnesota.

Brazelton enrolls at MTSU
If Dewon Brazelton, the No. 3 choice overall in June draft, starts classes Monday, Tampa Bay loses its rights to pitcher.

Metrodome lends memories to McRae
MINNEAPOLIS -- The manager's desk and locker occupy the same corner in the visitors clubhouse at the Metrodome, 10 years after Hal McRae asked for them to be moved.

Aug. 17
Rays' smiles swept away by Yanks
Two big homers launch a 12-5 New York blowout, completing a lost series for Tampa Bay.

Opportunity arises to split young lefties
NEW YORK -- After waiting a few weeks to make a decision, Hal McRae might have found an opportunity to break up left-handed starters Nick Bierbrodt and Joe Kennedy.

Rays on deck

Aug. 16
Wilson loses but perseveres
Rays fall 10-3 to Yanks but are encouraged by 131-pitch outing that gives pen a rest.

Bullpen pitching well, but too much
NEW YORK -- The price of being competitive, the Rays bullpen discovered during the recent homestand, is an increased workload.

Vaughn feels guilty as club's bats sag
NEW YORK -- Greg Vaughn is disappointed in himself most of all.

Aug. 15
Rays brought back to reality
Tino Martinez's three-run homer in the sixth lifts Yanks to a 5-3 comeback win, snapping Tampa Bay's four-game winning streak.

Seay relaxes, then impresses in debut
NEW YORK -- After he trotted onto the field and stepped onto the mound at Yankee Stadium, Bobby Seay felt the nerves wash away.

Aug. 14
Brace yourself: Rays sweep
Tampa Bay takes four from the formerly first-place Twins, its best winning streak this season.

Seay enjoys major turn of fortunes
ST. PETERSBURG -- Bobby Seay thought the summons into Orlando manager Mike Ramsey's office Sunday evening meant he was on his way to Triple-A Durham.

Easy pickings? Not for Twins
The one-time AL Central leaders blow shot to feast on lowly Rays but say they're not going to panic.

Rays hire sales adviser
JP Morgan investment bankers will seek buyers for all or part of team.

Aug. 13
In a late Flash, Rays are winners again
John Flaherty's 12th-inning homer gives Tampa Bay a 4-3 win and a three-game winning streak.

Maddux falls short of Fischer
ST. PETERSBURG -- Greg Maddux had no chance.

McRae stands by Yan as closer
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays remain adamant about sticking with Esteban Yan.

Aug. 12
Frightening finish goes Rays' way
Esteban Yan makes it interesting but doesn't blow it, this time, as Ryan Rupe and two rookies key a 4-3 victory over the Twins.

Rupe renewed by extra rest
ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays manager Hal McRae gave pitcher Ryan Rupe 10 days between starts to rest the 26-year-old's arm and, he hoped, to get him back in the win column for the first time since June.

Rays tales
STRIKE ZONE: Bill Fischer did some remarkable pitching during his 1962 streak of not allowing a walk for 84 1/3 innings. But he didn't have much success for a Kansas City A's team that finished 72-90. Fischer's performance during the streak:

Unlikely mark gets the right challenger
ST. PETERSBURG -- It was nothing Bill Fischer set out to do.

The name game
When Nick Bierbrodt made his home debut with the Rays on Wednesday, somebody in the marketing office had a clever idea: sell beers and brats at a discounted price. So who else in the majors could warrant a similar promotion based solely on his name? Here are a few suggestions:

Aug. 11
Wilson stays in zone as Rays defeat Twins
Paul Wilson pitches well again and Tampa Bay holds on for 4-2 victory.

Finances may be behind Daulton's resignation
ST. PETERSBURG -- The personal problems that led to Darren Daulton's resignation as Rays bullpen coach could be finance related.

McRae says Yan just needs time
ST. PETERSBURG -- Esteban Yan is still a ways from evolving into the closer manager Hal McRae thinks he can be.

Aug. 10
Nightmare ninth drops Rays
Esteban Yan gives up two-run lead as Luis Sojo rallies Yankees 4-3.

Rays on deck

Justice gives Yanks another nice boost
ST. PETERSBURG -- All Yankees manager Joe Torre wants is for June 30, 2000, to happen again.

Depending on Sojo works again for N.Y.
ST. PETERSBURG -- Luis Sojo forces you to believe in him, no matter his batting average or lack of playing time.

McRae determined to stick with Yan
ST. PETERSBURG -- Despite boos and a second blown save in eight days, Rays manager Hal McRae's confidence in his closer has not wavered.

Aug. 9
Same division, leagues apart
Veteran Yankees badly outplay young Rays in every phase of a 16-1 pounding.

Youngster endures one of those days
ST. PETERSBURG -- Nick Bierbrodt shrugged and smiled.

Rays on deck
The game...

Aug. 8
Win belongs to the 'old' man
Tanyon Sturtze, a relative veteran in this bunch, pitches a career-high eight innings in a 3-2 win over the first-place Yankees.

Sandberg audition begins with a bang
ST. PETERSBURG -- Everything Jared Sandberg has had to overcome -- and that's not including the rush to catch a flight from Columbus, Ohio, to Tampa on Tuesday, the woman who woke him from a deep sleep to ask if he wanted a drink or the hour wait at the airport for a lightning storm to let up and allow him to get his luggage -- just made Tuesday night that much sweeter.

Aug. 7
14-day road trip finally ends but losing doesn't for Rays
Tampa Bay ends its stint away from home with a 5-8 mark after falling to the White Sox 5-2.

Standridge to get first start Thursday
CHICAGO -- Jason Standridge's first memory of Tropicana Field was when the ballpark "was concrete with dump trucks in there."

Aug. 6
Rays squeeze out a win
Russ Johnson's bunt rescues Tampa Bay after it blows a 4-0 lead in a 6-4 victory over the White Sox.

Wallace will fill in for fatigued Rupe
CHICAGO -- Going on what he called a "gut feeling," Rays manager Hal McRae will start Jeff Wallace in place of Ryan Rupe against the White Sox today.

Aug. 5
Offense is there but isn't enough
A day after Rays are one-hit, Joe Kennedy blows 5-0 lead in 8-6 loss.

Position wanted: big-league manager
Tom Foley gave up his title as farm director because he wanted to spend more time on the diamond, working with and overseeing Rays minor-leaguers as the field coordinator.

Aug. 4
Buehrle a one-hit wonder
White Sox starter takes no-hitter into seventh in a 4-0 win over the Rays.

New town, friends, life for Canseco
CHICAGO -- He is happy, healthy and back in the big leagues.

Aug. 3
O's lend the Rays a hand
Brady Anderson's poor baserunning stops rally in the 3-2 Tampa Bay win.

LaMar's cuts give the budget a boost
BALTIMORE -- General manager Chuck LaMar cleared enough veterans and payroll off the roster that the Rays don't have to make any further reductions this season, chief operating officer John McHale said. But whether more cuts will be needed for 2002 has not been determined.

Aug. 2
Rays fail to make their lead big enough for Yan
The struggling closer gives up two homers in the ninth as the O's come back for a 6-5 win.

Hall already making powerful friends
BALTIMORE -- Toby Hall has played a handful of games, but the rookie catcher already has made a significant impression on manager Hal McRae.

Aug. 1
Tyner rescues Rays
The leftfielder's sliding catch in the ninth inning ends the game with the tying run heading home in a 5-4 win over the Orioles.

Rays quiet at deadline but might not be done
BALTIMORE -- Greg Vaughn still is here, for now. So are John Flaherty, Ben Grieve and the rest of the Rays who made it to Baltimore.

Quad Hamilton's new trouble spot
BALTIMORE -- Eventually, Josh Hamilton will get back on the field.

July 31
Ready or not, the kids are getting their trial by fire
The Rays plan to use the rest of the season to figure out which of their youngsters can help turn team into a winner.

Lost year weighing heavy on Hamilton
Prospect hopes injuries that have cost him most of season are an aberration.

Rays still talking as deadline nears
BALTIMORE -- Having already made two significant deals, the Rays head toward today's 4 p.m. non-waiver trading deadline with the possibility of additional action.

July 30
Kennedy's luck still running cold
Rookie pitches well again but gets no help in Rays' 2-0 loss to Rangers.

Vaughn may be next man purged
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Fred McGriff, Albie Lopez and Mike DiFelice are gone.

Newest Ray is thinking ahead
Nick Bierbrodt focuses on first-pitch strikes in impressive debut Saturday.

July 29
Trade finally makes Cox's position clear
With McGriff gone, youngster gets to finish season as everyday first baseman.

Too late for rookie, but Rays come through
Facing powerful Rangers on the road, Nick Bierbrodt gives reason for hope as Tampa Bay pulls out a 7-3 win in 10.

Standridge seeks his lost aggression
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Jason Standridge isn't sure exactly what went wrong, doesn't know precisely why a promising season turned so bad so unexpectedly.

Tale of the tape
If only James Baldwin had a no-trade clause. In response to his trade from the White Sox to the Dodgers, the right-handed pitcher lauded all things Chicago: "I'll miss everything about Chicago, the fans, the front office, the pizza, everything." Maybe the Cubs had Baldwin sell Fred McGriff on Chicago's deep-dish delights and other assets. Here's a look at the Windy City vs. our fair Sunshine State home:

July 28
Finally, McGriff deal is done
After realizing his career will not end with the Rays, the Tampa native accepts his trade to the Chicago Cubs.

Slam not enough for Sturtze, Rays
Ben Grieve provides the Rays a cushion, but Texas rallies with barrage of hits, 13-7.

July 27
Rupe rapped early, often in loss to Angels
Four HRs (three consecutive) send Anaheim past Tampa Bay 5-3.

New lefty starter to get quick look
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Nick Bierbrodt didn't waste much time Wednesday night after hearing he was traded from the Diamondbacks to the Rays. He packed his stuff, hopped in his truck and drove five hours straight through to his family home in nearby Long Beach, Calif.

Hall's job is to take the lead
McRae: Rookie catcher will be asked to assert himself.

July 26
Lopez, DiFelice dealt to D'backs
Rays trim payroll, make room for top prospect Toby Hall by dealing pitcher, catcher to the NL West leaders.

Wilson emerges from pen to dazzle for Rays
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- With all the players coming and going Wednesday, Paul Wilson made an impressive return of his own.

Loss means no joy in Gomez's debut
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- In one way, Chris Gomez looked Tuesday night as if he'd fit right in with the Rays, stroking a ground-rule double and a three-run homer in the 9-6 loss to Anaheim that featured his Tampa Bay debut.

July 25
A home letdown for Rays' Kennedy
In front of more than 100 friends and relatives, the rookie has one of his worst outings in a 9-6 loss to the Angels.

Seay resumes slow climb
When the Rays signed Bobby Seay in 1996 and handed him a $3-million bonus, they envisioned a pitcher who would emerge from the farm system to be one of the first key contributors to the big-league team.

With Rays, Gomez finds a perfect fit
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Chris Gomez was looking for an opportunity. Relieved to be released by the Padres on June 22, Gomez signed with the Rays thinking it might be his best chance to get back to the big leagues. He made it after less than a month of Triple-A play, starting at shortstop Tuesday night.

McGriff denies change of heart
Slugger shoots down rumor he's reconsidering deal to Cubs but won't say he'll remain a Ray.

July 24
Grand entrance
After a demotion, a slump and an injury, Brent Abernathy has become one of the Rays' few bright spots.

Trip likely to end with unfamiliar club
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- The Rays flew west Monday night, embarking on a country-crossing, 14-day, 5,871-mile road trip that will be the longest journey in their history. By the time they get back to Tropicana Field Aug. 7, having visited Anaheim, Texas, Baltimore and Chicago, the team is likely to have a different look.

July 23
Into the unknown: Rays show some O
Greg Vaughn's grand slam highlights relative explosion in 7-4 win.

Veteran Gomez gets shot at short
ST. PETERSBURG -- Seeking a little more offense from the shortstop position, the Rays designated Andy Sheets for assignment and called up Chris Gomez from Triple-A Durham.

July 22
Economics pushing Rays' trade winds
ST. PETERSBURG -- It's not that Rays officials really want to separate Fred McGriff from his family. Or hand over Albie Lopez to a contender. Or trade Greg Vaughn. Or John Flaherty. Or anyone else who may soon be granted the chance to leave the building.

Perfect ending for Rays
Abernathy, Flaherty strike late to bust up Oliver's gem in 2-1 win.

Change for better helps Rupe's cause
ST. PETERSBURG -- John Flaherty was one of the first to realize that Ryan Rupe was on top of his game Saturday afternoon.

Best in the(Inter)league
When the Rays won two of three against the Braves last week in their final interleague series of the season, it raised eyebrows. The worst team in the majors looked remarkably better against NL teams. How much better? They're actually over .500.

July 21
Injury added to Rays' insult
Albie Lopez comes out early; team mark is set for ineptitude after 4-1 loss.

Rekar to DL with shoulder tendinitis
ST. PETERSBURG -- Right-handed pitcher Bryan Rekar was placed on the disabled list Friday with tendinitis in his right shoulder and the Rays recalled rookie right-handed reliever Jesus Colome from Triple-A Durham.

July 20
Rays empty again
More strong pitching -- despite Bryan Rekar's early departure -- yields another 2-1 loss to Angels.

Wallace looks good for the long haul
ST. PETERSBURG -- Jeff Wallace has been in the bullpen long enough to know that his name could be called at any time. Even when things seem to be going well, such as the starting pitcher working his way out of a first-inning jam as Bryan Rekar did Thursday afternoon, holding Anaheim scoreless.

July 19
Mayor tells investors: Devil Rays stay or else
A Washington investor group looks at the Rays. St. Petersburg's mayor tells them not to get any ideas.

Kennedy's future top priority in loss
Rookie's solid outing ends after 6 in Angels' 2-1 win as Rays coddle the promising left-hander.

Relief corps gaining McRae's confidence
ST. PETERSBURG -- Whether it's the shaved heads or the 17 games spent without closer Esteban Yan, Rays middle relievers continue to gain praise from their manager.

July 18
Maddux crushes sweep dreams
Braves ace cuts down Tampa Bay on 100 pitches to win his sixth straight, 4-0 on final day of interleague play.

Lopez knows days as Ray may be short
ATLANTA -- Albie Lopez isn't looking too far into the future. He knows he is scheduled to throw in the bullpen before tonight's game, and to start Friday against Texas, and that's about it.

July 17
McGriff rebuffs Cubs
Rays slugger says he needs more time to study the impact of a trade and might still be open to one.

And the hero is ... guess, just guess
Fred McGriff's homer in the ninth lifts the Rays to a 6-5 win and their first road series victory.

Puzzling Grieve put in front of sluggers
ATLANTA -- Manager Hal McRae said he'd try anything to get Ben Grieve out of his slump. Monday, he tried putting the less-than-fleet outfielder in the No. 2 slot in the lineup.

July 16
A stirring farewell (?)
Fred McGriff homers twice, stays mum on reports he'll accept trade to Cubs in Rays' 9-1 romp over Braves.

Naimoli says his piece of team isn't for sale
ATLANTA -- Vince Naimoli plans to keep his share of the Rays.

Rookie handles hometown jitters
ATLANTA -- He made his major-league debut at fabled Fenway Park. He played his second series on the grand stage of Yankee Stadium. He made his first appearance at Tropicana Field against his old Toronto teammates.

July 15
A happy face on this? McRae's trying
After the Expos' 10-2 rout drops the Rays to 1-2 in the second half, Tampa Bay's manager tries to look at the bright side: "One game and we're .500."

Cubs reportedly want an answer by Monday
MONTREAL -- Finally, time may be running out on Fred McGriff's decision whether to approve a trade from the Rays to the Cubs.

Expos show how it could be worse
MONTREAL -- The Rays have not drawn as many fans as they'd like to home games, averaging an American League-low 15,307. But their problems aren't nearly as bad as those in Montreal.

Now they're younger; will that mean better?
MONTREAL -- If the Rays can keep playing as they've been playing for much of the past couple weeks, manager Hal McRae is sure they'll win more games in the second half than they did in the first. "That's a certainty," McRae said.

Rays tales
BALL FORE?: Rays right-hander Tanyon Sturtze, if you ask most hitters, has pretty decent stuff on the mound. If you go by what the editors of T&L Golf magazine say, he can be pretty good on the links, too.

July 14
McGriff minding family
Slugger's agent says his comfort in bay area is holding up trade to Cubs.

Fickle Rays fall back again, 6-2
MONTREAL -- So which team shows up today?

Team to remember slain Tampa officer
MONTREAL -- The Rays are planning to make a sizable donation in memory of slain Tampa police officer Lois Marrero as part of Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on July 21.

July 13
For once, Rays win a laugher
The second half starts flawlessly for Tampa Bay, winning 10-0 behind Tanyon Sturtze on the mound.

McGriff on trade: 'We'll see.''
The hometown first baseman hems and haws while the Cubs and Rays wait.

Yan's return finds bullpen stabilized
MONTREAL -- The Rays said their bullpen should be considerably better now, and not just because they activated closer Esteban Yan off the disabled list Thursday.

July 12
Signs say McGriff will remain a Ray
Slugger flies with team to Montreal, which may mean he's nixing deal or may be negotiating ploy.

Yan off DL today to reclaim closer role
ST. PETERSBURG -- On the 15-day disabled list since June 24 with inflammation in his right shoulder, Esteban Yan will resume his role as closer today.

July 11
McGriff may be sent to Cubs
The Rays, looking to trim payroll, appear ready to deal their slugger for two minor-leaguers.

July 9
First half comes to a fitting end
Defense is sloppy, offense stalls in a 6-1 defeat that ties Rays for second-most losses ever at the break.

Vaughn out of All-Star Game
ST. PETERSBURG -- Being unable to play in the All-Star Game because he strained his right hamstring Sunday was disappointing enough. But Greg Vaughn said it would be considerably more troubling if he still were sidelined when the Rays open the second half Thursday in Montreal.

Rays' Hall is biggest Futures Game star
SEATTLE -- The answer sounded rehearsed and, when the room around him got quieter, Toby Hall admitted as much.

July 8
Lopez pitches like ace at last
Rays starter ends his major-league high 10-game skid with a 4-3 win over the Marlins.

Rays' Tyner rises above expectations
Although he is 24, Rays outfielder Jason Tyner easily could be asked for identification at a movie theater. Called "Tiny" by some teammates, here are his takes on being 6-1 and 170 pounds, hitting home runs, playing pranks, counting his blessings.

Adversity gives Phelps new life
ST. PETERSBURG -- Travis Phelps isn't about to thankhome plate umpire Mark Barron for possibly missing a pitch, but he has to admit things worked out well for him.

Club MVP not satisfied
ST. PETERSBURG -- Sitting on a counter (but not a couch) in the Rays clubhouse Friday afternoon, Greg Vaughn said he felt he hadn't done enough during the first half.

Rays Tales: At the All-Star Break
Since their inception, the Rays have longed for the national attention bestowed upon the more established franchises.

July 7
Rays remain calm with 5-4 win in 11
Marlins tie it with a 2-out homer in 9th, but Hal McRae knew it was Tampa Bay's game. Two innings later, it was.

Yan yearns for return to roster
ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays manager Hal McRae called it a chance to "get rid of some rust," but pitcher Esteban Yan sees tonight's appearance in Orlando as another couple of days he's not with his team, despite the fact he feels fine.

July 6
More of the same for Rays in 60th loss
Ryan Rupe strikes out nine Blue Jays, but Tampa Bay puts together little offense in 7-4 loss.

Retirement an option for still-ailing Alvarez
ST. PETERSBURG -- Wilson Alvarez is experiencing soreness in his left forearm, and the Rays left-hander is frustrated enough to say he'll retire if he can't return this season.

Hamilton expected out 7-10 more days
ST. PETERSBURG -- Josh Hamilton isn't expected to play for another seven to 10 days and is close to turning what was supposed to be his tuneup season into an injury-riddled disaster.

July 5
A record loss, in no time
Bryan Rekar leaves after 2 2/3 innings as Rays lose their 59th before the break, an AL mark.

Vaughn is Rays' All-Star
ST. PETERSBURG -- Greg Vaughn was planning to spend the All-Star break with Michele and the kids in Elk Grove, Calif., their suburban Sacramento home. He'll detour to meet them, and a pair of future Hall of Famers, in Seattle.

Slumping Grieve remains on bench
ST. PETERSBURG -- When the Rays traded for Ben Grieve in January, they got a 24-year-old who averaged 24 home runs and 93 RBI during his first three seasons. They envisioned an outfield star who would lead the team offensively.

July 4
Relying on the rookie works again for Rays
Joe Kennedy pitches six gutsy innings, gets atypical support in 7-2 win over Jays.

Pitchers get to work outside for stamina
ST. PETERSBURG -- Manager Hal McRae wants to see his pitchers sweat.

July 3
Rays can't keep it close long enough
14-game stretch against Red Sox and Yanks ends with too typical 7-1 loss in New York.

McRae: Cox will stay in lineup
NEW YORK -- The Rays don't know when Fred McGriff's left hamstring will improve enough for him to return to first base. It could be tonight, it could be this week, it could be after the All-Star break.

July 2
Unsightly loss sums up Rays' half-season
A 6-1 loss to the Yanks in 81st game includes all the elements that have Tampa Bay on target for 114 losses.

Lopez knows life as Ray may be ending
NEW YORK -- Albie Lopez doesn't want to jump to conclusions.

July 1
Rays let another win slip through fingers
Tampa Bay starter Ryan Rupe shuts down the Yankees for a 4-0 lead after five innings, but New York's sluggers lead the rally for a 5-4 win.

Rupe knows numbers don't always add up
NEW YORK -- Ryan Rupe knows what it looks like on the stat sheet, that he has a 4-7 record and 7.15 ERA.

Serving youth wasn'tamong veterans' goals
NEW YORK -- The face of the Rays is getting younger. It has some peach fuzz, a little acne and a fresh perspective.

Rays tales
QUICK THINKING: Brent Abernathy had a pretty good debut Monday, knocking a ball over Fenway's fabled Green Monster for his first big-league hit. His parents made an impressive entrance as well.

June 30
Rays can't dig out of hole
The Yankees take a seven-run lead and hold on for 7-5 victory.

Williams glad to be a Yankee
NEW YORK -- Gerald Williams is happier being a Yankee than being a Ray.

June 29
A new streak starts
After losing 11 straight to the Red Sox, the Rays win their second in a row, 4-3.

Williams could see old mates tonight
BOSTON -- Turns out, the Rays will see Gerald Williams again.

Upset with umpire, Vaughn speaks his mind -- again
BOSTON -- Greg Vaughn isn't shy about making his feelings known.

June 28
This one doesn't get away
Rays end 11-game skid against Red Sox, blowing 6-0 lead before bouncing back for 9-7 victory.

Shortstop deeper with veteran Gomez
BOSTON -- The Rays signed Chris Gomez to a Triple-A contract Wednesday, but the veteran shortstop could end up in the big leagues relatively quickly.

June 27
Youth falters in brutal loss
Sticking with rookie relievers costs Rays best shot at first win in 11 games against Red Sox as Boston rallies for 7-6 victory.

Rays think positive in post-game chat
BOSTON -- The Rays are trying to talk their way into getting some relief.

June 26
That's a perfect 10 . . . for the Red Sox
The Rays lose for the 10th time in 10 games against Boston. It's an old story, but this time there's a youthful touch.

Abernathy back up; Guillen back to DL
BOSTON -- Brent Abernathy, even general manager Chuck LaMar acknowledged Monday, deserved to make the team out of spring training. But when the Rays decided to keep Bobby Smith and send Abernathy to Triple A, he balanced his disappointment with the belief that he'd eventually make it back.

June 25
Suddenly, things go right for Rays
A 5-4 win over Yanks ends an 8-game skid, gives Tampa Bay first win this season when trailing in the eighth.

Rays jettison Williams
ST. PETERSBURG -- Gerald Williams is gone, but he will not be forgotten. At least not until the Rays are through signing his paychecks.

Beware, Fred McGriff
There is no quicker way out of town than winning the Rays MVP award. Presented by the local Baseball Writers Association of America chapter, the award seems to carry a curse.

Guillen clears it up: Corked bat was his
ST. PETERSBURG -- Jose Guillen has served his 10-game suspension for using a corked bat during a minor-league rehabilitation assignment, and now he wants to clear up any confusion about the incident.

June 24
Rays look flat again
With opportunities to spare, Tampa Bay comes up empty in a 2-1 loss to the Yankees, its season-high eighth straight.

This is bad ...
Rays vs. opponents during Tampa Bay's eight-game losing streak:

Injuries sap much of lineup's wattage
ST. PETERSBURG -- You might say Saturday night's Tampa Bay lineup lacked a certain quality. And that quality would be power.

Rebuilding starts with younger, cheaper club
ST. PETERSBURG -- It's too late, however appealing the thought might be, for the Rays to start over. But from what new chief operating officer John McHale Jr. says, they are going to start doing things differently.

Rays tales
Some Rays have some interesting connections with Cal Ripken, whose retirement tour stops at Tropicana Field on Aug. 21-23. Among them:

June 23
Still on the skids
After a 6-3 loss to the Yankees extends two losing streaks, Albie Lopez sounds off on the Rays' bullpen woes: "It's killing us."

Same as ever in New York
The Yankees are in the pennant chase, as usual, but then again New York is not a "usual" baseball market.

For now, door open for substitute closer
ST. PETERSBURG -- Esteban Yan landing on the 15-day disabled list Friday means other pitchers are going to see a little more action.

June 22
Yan coughs one up
Rays take a lead to the ninth, but Esteban Yan falters with two out in a 7-4 loss. Now Yan might head to the disabled list.

Pitching carousel takes another spin
ST. PETERSBURG -- Most teams call the bullpen when they have a need for a relief pitcher. The Devil Rays call Durham, N.C.

June 21
Devil Rays begin mending fences
John McHale Jr., the chief operating officer, says the team blames no one else for its woes and will work to earn support.

Bullpen spoils it for Rupe, Rays
Starter's strong outing is wasted in 8-2 loss to Boston, Tampa Bay's fifth straight.

Hamilton ready to resume career
ST. PETERSBURG -- Josh Hamilton envisioned standing at the plate at Tropicana Field this season, although not in these circumstances.

Agent: Rays can trade, not release, Williams
ST. PETERSBURG -- The agent for Gerald Williams said if the Rays want to trade the slumping outfielder, the two would help facilitate a deal, perhaps by restructuring terms of his contract. But if the Rays choose to release Williams, agent Seth Levinson said he is prepared to fight them.

June 20
No-hit to near victory
Tim Wakefield takes no-hitter into ninth; Rays rally but fall short 5-4.

Red Sox saw early signs of dominance
ST. PETERSBURG -- Just walking into the controlled setting of Tropicana Field gave Boston starter Tim Wakefield a pretty good feeling about Tuesday's game. Warming up in the bullpen had Wakefield and catcher Scott Hatteberg laughing out loud with excitement.

Pedro says he's ready; Rays stay skeptical
ST. PETERSBURG -- Will he or won't he?

June 19
Rays under McRae still an open tryout
A dramatic turnover is part of trying to find the right combinations, manager says.

Rays eager for test against East titans
With interleague play over for now following a three-game sweep by the Marlins, the Rays get 14 straight against the top two teams in the AL East.

Heart attack kills father of ex-Ray McCracken
CHICAGO -- The father of Twins and former Rays outfielder Quinton McCracken died after an apparent heart attack at the team's hotel, where he was staying while Minnesota played the Cubs.

June 18
Kennedy gets a taste of defeat
Rookie lefty struggles for first time, giving up 4-0 lead in Rays' 6-4 loss to Marlins.

McRae finds a spot to work in Wilson
MIAMI -- Manager Hal McRae said before Sunday's game against the Marlins that he hoped to get Paul Wilson out of the bullpen and involved at some point.

June 17
Good karma fading for Rays
Marlins score five unearned runs in the second and one-hit Tampa Bay in an 11-0 romp.

Accolades could continue with win
MIAMI -- The list of possible superlatives for Joe Kennedy is growing daily.

McGriff rolls on, but will it be with Rays?
The song selection, Fred McGriff says, was not anything born of deep thought, just a casual suggestion from unofficial team DJ Gerald Williams. But every time McGriff steps to the plate and Destiny's Child's Survivor plays, the message is extremely clear.

Rays tales
DOME CREW: In Seattle, they have Buhner Buzz Cut night, when fans can get their hair cut (off) like Mariners outfielder Jay Buhner. The Rays are working on the Bullpen Buzz Cut.

June 16
Rays go flat against Marlins 7-4
With Fred McGriff out, the offense offers little against A.J. Burnett.

Martinez returns to his spot at short
MIAMI -- Felix Martinez, as expected, was activated from the 15-day disabled list Friday.

June 15
Rays lower broom
Tampa Bay stays hot, getting hitting, pitching and a 6-3 victory to sweep the first-place Phillies.

Martinez gets Wheeler's spot
ST. PETERSBURG -- With shortstop Felix Martinez expected to be activated from the 15-day disabled list today, the Rays optioned relief pitcher Dan Wheeler to Triple-A Durham after Thursday's win against the Phillies.

Guillen suspended 10 games, fined
A little cork in Jose Guillen's bat ended up costing him a lot.

June 14
Rekar finally gets his victory
Rally in 8th ends starter's 7-game skid in Rays' 5-3 win over Phils.

Guillen tossed in minors for apparent corked bat
ST. PETERSBURG -- Jose Guillen may have more problems than recovering from a sprained left knee.

Revitalized pitching inspires the bats
ST. PETERSBURG -- The slugger's two-run homer in the eighth inning was the final salvo in the Rays' 5-3 win Wednesday night, but what did Greg Vaughn want to talk about?

Naimoli says Rays would resist being nixed
PITTSBURGH -- If the Rays are a candidate for contraction, managing general partner Vince Naimoli said he is not aware of it. And despite the franchise's attendance woes, he said the ownership group is not in favor of it.

June 13
Kennedy shines again
Rookie left-hander wins second straight start in Rays' 9-5 victory over first-place Phillies.

Nash set to start career
ST. PETERSBURG -- He hasn't set foot on a "real" baseball field yet, hasn't really seen what minor-league baseball is all about. He doesn't even have any professional baseball statistics.

Tyner starts in CF, maybe for good
ST. PETERSBURG -- For Rays manager Hal McRae, the decision was as simple as this: "One guy is struggling; one guy is swinging the bat well."

June 12
To those in know, rise no surprise
Even his prep coach saw this kind of promise in Joe Kennedy, who makes his Trop debut tonight.

Surging Vaughn wins weekly honor
ST. PETERSBURG -- Even in a season of darkness, an occasional light shines.

June 11
The old Rays reemerge,they hope not for long
Brutal defense, flaccid bats undermine Albie Lopez and lead to a 10-0 loss to the Mets, ending hopes of a series sweep.

A relaxed Wilson flashes promise
ST. PETERSBURG -- For a game that essentially was a loss by the sixth inning, the Rays still had reason for optimism by the end.

June 10
Rays revel in a taste of blood
Rugged 5-2 win over Mets gives Tampa Bay first series since April.

Pitching turnaround helps hitters relax
ST. PETERSBURG -- They say good play starts at the top. For the Rays, the top is their starting pitching.

Rays tales
BOBBING ALONG: Bobblehead dolls are a big deal. They're the hot promotions at ballparks across the country and are bringing premium prices being resold on the auction market.

All the numbers say Williams must go
ST. PETERSBURG -- In an effort to make the team younger and less expensive, general manager Chuck LaMar is trying (really!) to trade some of the veterans.

June 9
Rupe finds form; Rays win
The starter, and many teammates, have a stellar night in beating Mets 7-5.

Winn may stay in when Guillen returns
ST. PETERSBURG -- All Randy Winn needed was a break, an opportunity to play every day and show the Rays and manager Hal McRae what he can do.

June 8
Huff, Rekar help Rays lose to Jays
The third baseman's error sparks a Toronto rally, and the starter blows two leads in 8-7 loss.

Tyner's job may be in jeopardy
TORONTO -- Jason Tyner has six hits in his past two starts. He also has the endorsement of manager Hal McRae, who said he liked Tyner's style. What Tyner does not have is job security.

June 7
Kennedy pierces gloom
Rookie pitches five solid innings in debut as Rays snap six-game skid with 6-2 win.

Lineup shift tried to wake up Williams
TORONTO -- It is no mere slump. It has lasted too long, the signs are too many. The question is whether Gerald Williams can do anything to correct it.

Fast No. 1 deal expected
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays are expected to open contract talks with top pick Dewon Brazelton today, with both sides believing it won't take long to strike a deal.

June 6
Rays' top pick: 'This is for us'
The celebration is still not over. The joy is not yet complete.

Brazelton, Rays get wish
Righty taken No. 3 sees a perfect fit with Tampa Bay, with both expecting a rapid rise.

Rays take advantage of pitching bounty
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays had plenty of trouble on the field in Toronto on Tuesday, but the team officials working at Tropicana Field had a pretty good day.

Hamilton rehabs away from spotlight
ST. PETERSBURG -- Josh Hamilton's appearance in St. Petersburg did not bring the hoopla or circumstances the Rays and their star outfielder expected.

McRae takes aim at woeful offense
TORONTO -- Having scored four runs or fewer in 10 of the previous 11 games, Rays manager Hal McRae decided something had to change. If not the offensive results, at least the offensive approach.

This can't be for real
The Rays visit the slumping Blue Jays and prove good for what ails them, falling 13-1.

June 5
Draft no breeze for Rays
Saying money isn't an issue, club waits to see who falls to the No. 3 pick.

Rays of hope?
Here is what the Rays have done with their first pick in each draft, and how the player has done:

Lopez hopes health heals mound woes
Albie Lopez is feeling better, and the Rays hope that means he will be pitching better.

June 4
Vaughn lays into umps after another loss
After striking out to end an 8-4 defeat, slugger vents, saying umpires have been biased against the Rays.

Rays still crying foul over ump's presumption
No way would Ichiro Suzuki have caught a ball ruled an out by fan interference Saturday, McRae and others say.

A day later, Vaughn unfazed by beaning
SEATTLE -- Greg Vaughn was stiff and sore but back in the lineup Sunday despite being hit in the head with a pitch in Saturday's game.

June 3
Rays flop early and often in a comical loss
Seattle scores five in the first off Ryan Rupe en route to a 7-4 victory.

Consistency eluding Sturtze
SEATTLE -- Forget the pitching charts, the scouting reports, the weather maps, the horoscopes, the biorhythms or any other gimmick pitchers have been known to use.

From the rubble rises a rose named Rolls
SEATTLE -- Plenty has been said and written -- as regular readers of these pages may have, um, noticed -- about the poor signings, bad trades and otherwise unwise personnel decisions made by the Rays.

Rays tales
THE CANDY MAN CAN: It seems like child's play, but it can be one of the most important and, until now, least known duties of being a Rays reliever: handling the candy bag.

For better or worse
In one respect, the Rays have been trailblazers this season.

June 2
Kennedy gets the call for the Rays
Left-handed pitcher put up minor-league numbers that ultimately were too good to ignore.

Mariners too much for Rays 8-4
Tampa Bay stays close early but loses 3rd in row on West Coast.

White at least happy he has an answer
SEATTLE -- Matt White is disappointed about missing the rest of the season and sore from the surgery on his right shoulder, but more than anything else Friday he was relieved.

June 1
Johnson back, but maybe not to start
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Weeks of rest and rehab on his sore right leg got Russ Johnson back on the Rays' active roster Thursday. Getting back on the field on a regular basis will be a little more difficult.

Rays' White to miss season after surgery
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Once-heralded pitching prospect Matt White will be out at least the rest of this season after shoulder surgery Thursday.

Rays lose 10-1, so LaMar may make moves
The general manager says trades may not be possible, but "expect there to be some shuffling."

May 31
Lopez ripped again
Ace's slump reaches six starts as A's bomb Rays 15-2.

Rolls graduates to full-time Devil Ray
OAKLAND -- The moment passed without ceremony, but Damian Rolls officially became a full-fledged member of the Rays organization Wednesday.

May 30
Lidle bashes Rays; then Rays bash back
The former Tampa Bay pitcher provides some clubhouse clippings before the Rays beat him and the Athletics 5-1.

Catchers swapped as DiFelice starts
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Hal McRae's latest attempt to improve the Rays has Mike DiFelice replacing John Flaherty behind the plate.

May 29
Rays let Rupe down
A stellar outing in return from minors is wasted in a 3-1 loss to the Angels.

Up next: Athletics
10:05 today; 3:35 Wednesday; 3:35 Thursday

Martinez slowed by sore left knee
ST. PETERSBURG -- Shortstop Felix Martinez has been bothered by a sore left knee since diving for a ball in spring training, but the injury flared up Sunday after his first start in more than a week.

Marlins job interests Daulton
ST. PETERSBURG -- Devil Rays bullpen coach Darren Daulton is being mentioned as a possible managerial candidate for the Florida Marlins following the dismissal of John Boles on Monday.

May 28
A glint of luck beams in on Rays
Angels rightfielder Orlando Palmeiro loses a line drive in the lights in the 10th as Tampa Bay pulls out a 4-3 win.

Rupe back on staff as Rose goes to pen
ST. PETERSBURG -- For days, the Rays had maintained Brian Rose would start today's home game against Anaheim, but after Sunday's win, Tampa Bay recalled right-hander Ryan Rupe from Triple-A Durham and will start him instead.

May 27
Rays keep missing the target
Ten walks, four wild pitches and an early 7-0 deficit add up to another dispiriting loss, 10-4 to the Angels.

From the mountain top to the cellar in 8 years
Welcome John McHale. For those of you not familiar with the gent entrusted to turning around our beloved Rays, let's recap his recent career path.

McHale promises responsibility, professionalism and fun
In a brief speech Tuesday, new Devil Rays chief operating officer John McHale Jr. shared his thoughts on how a major-league team fits into the community and outlined the beliefs he said will become guiding principles for the Rays. Here are his words:

McHale can save Rays, if they let him
ST. PETERSBURG -- The thousands of words spoken at last week's announcement of John McHale Jr.'s hiring as chief operating officer left few doubts about his experience, his credentials, his appetite for challenges, his ability to handle the task of saving the Rays.

Rays tales
LESSON PLANNER: Before John McHale Jr. became COO of the Rays, before he was president of the Tigers, before he was vice president of the Rockies, before he was a lawyer, before he was a lot of other things, he was an English teacher at Cardinal Newman High School in West Palm Beach.

Williams turns move in lineup into hits
ST. PETERSBURG -- He was moved from leadoff to No. 2 in the batting order a couple of weeks ago. The past two days, he has hit sixth and seventh.

May 26
Rays blow chances, lose 6-4
Failed rallies prove costly. But manager Hal McRae says he is unsatisfied with pitching ace Albie Lopez's performance.

Tyner 'thankful' to be in majors
Outfielder Jason Tyner played 50 games last year as a rookie with the Mets and Devil Rays, and that taste of the major leagues made him that much hungrier to get back after spending the first six weeks of the season at Triple-A Durham.

May 25
A-Rod makes the difference
Texas' high-profile star has high impact, homering twice in a 9-3 drilling of the Rays.

Alvarez hesitant after rehab start
ST. PETERSBURG -- Left-hander Wilson Alvarez had hoped Thursday's rehabilitation start, his seventh, would be his last before moving up to Double-A Orlando. Now he's not sure.

Up next
Up next: Angels

Ray's stuff
Tonight: Rays at Orioles

May 24
Rays seize chances
Texas balks in the go-ahead run as Tampa Bay comes back from four down to win 10-6.

Huff still seeking groove as starter
ST. PETERSBURG -- It has been two weeks since Aubrey Huff became the Rays starting third baseman following the release of Vinny Castilla. So far, manager Hal McRae said, "He's doing about as well as we expected him to do.

May 23
A new man is in charge
John McHale Jr. joins Rays, says he's responsible for rebuilding on, off field.

McHale will open your eyes
He is the man in charge of tomorrow. But the best thing you can say about John McHale Jr. is this: Somehow, he sees through yesterday's eyes.

McHale hiring a long time coming
ST. PETERSBURG -- The hiring of John McHale Jr. seems as if it were weeks overdue. In fact, it may have been years overdue.

Pitching, defense, poise add up to loss
Rays get some crucial things right but fail to cash in on scoring chances as Rangers win 5-2.

Martinez may get work in at second
ST. PETERSBURG -- Last week, Rays manager Hal McRae said Felix Martinez starting again at shortstop was "off the radar screen."

May 22
McHale set to join Rays
He's expected to be named COO at a news conference today after a protracted negotiation.

Rolls' play makes role grow
A Rule V pick expected to head to the minors soon, the rookie infielder may wind up staying put.

Rolls and the Rule V draft
A player with at least three years of professional service who isn't on a major-league team's 40-man roster can be picked up by another team for $50,000.

Two-HR game can't sell Vaughn on DH
ST. PETERSBURG -- Greg Vaughn had perhaps his finest day as a designated hitter Sunday, but that does not mean he has any greater love for the job.

That'll buy lots of Twins
Alex Rodriguez makes sooo much money. How much? Well...

Up next: Rangers
7:15 tonight; 7:15 Wednesday; 7:15 Thursday

May 21
Inspired Rays rout Detroit
Everything clicks in a 10-2 victory that snaps a five-game losing streak and helps pay back a pair of blowout losses.

Hitting nice but not the focus for Sheets
ST. PETERSBURG -- On the day he joined the Rays, shortstop Andy Sheets said it was important for every ballplayer to understand his role.

May 20
Rays are in it, then blow it, again
Albie Lopez pitches valiantly through pain, but the Tigers capitalize on poor relief work, blown chances to win 10-5.

Fiore throws a fit after bullpen swap
ST. PETERSBURG -- The revolving door that is the Rays bullpen took another turn after Saturday's loss to the Tigers.

Third pick may still net one of top two
ST. PETERSBURG -- Most talk about the Rays concerns which faction of the ownership group is in charge, when John McHale Jr. will be named chief operating officer and how many of the veteran players general manager Chuck LaMar will be able to trade. (For the gullible types, there also is the question of whether the team will be folded after the season.)

Rays tales
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION: There is another, shall we say, mature left-hander wearing a Tampa Bay uniform these days. When the Rays signed Jim Morris in 1999, he was a 35-year-old high school coach/teacher who had been out of the game for 10 years.

May 19
Rays: record lows
In their latest loss, 18-2 to Detroit, Tampa Bay gives up the most runs at home and tie mark for runs, hits given up in an inning.

Guillen on DL; Tyner called up
ST. PETERSBURG -- The fact that Jose Guillen could walk in and out of the clubhouse with only a slip-on brace around his left knee probably amazed anybody who saw his vicious wipeout in Kansas City on Thursday, but for the Rays it was still cause for concern.

Rays stuff

May 18
Injury added to insult
Guillen injures knee; Royals finish sweep of Rays with 4-2 win.

Rays' daily report

Up next

May 17
Yes, things can get worse
Poor defense and relief work help the Rays blow a 5-0 lead in a 9-5 loss to the Royals.

McHale: We're still talking
ST. PETERSBURG -- While the commissioner's office is believed to be working behind the scenes to make the deal happen, John McHale Jr. said Wednesday there have been no developments in his possible move to Tampa Bay as Rays chief operating officer.

Injury an excuse to add pure shortstop
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- For the first time this season, the Devil Rays have a true backup at shortstop. And manager Hal McRae would like to keep him.

May 16
Rays beaten, bruised
Lack of power, clutch hitting result in a 6-2 loss to the Royals as Russ Johnson winds up disabled.

Closer a working paradox
Hans Smith is confusing, at best.

Castilla starts over in Houston
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The prospective employer wanted to check references, so a call was put in to Devil Rays manager Hal McRae.

Castilla saves T.B. a bundle
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Devil Rays took a loss on Vinny Castilla's contract, but they might have softened the blow.

May 15
A guiding force set to return
Hal McRae is the Rays manager, but he is a Royals legend.

Up next: Royals
8:05 tonight, 8:05 p.m. Wednesday, 8:05 p.m. Thursday

Alvarez takes another good step
In his fifth extended spring training start since surgery to repair a partially torn rotator cuff last May, Wilson Alvarez was solid in a five-inning outing Monday in Dunedin.

May 14
Rays rebound, avoid sweep
A day after being shut out, Tampa Bay returns the favor, defeating the Indians 7-0.

Start gives Cox chance to relax
CLEVELAND -- Slumped in a chair in the corner of the clubhouse, Steve Cox was joking with teammates that he was too tired to get up. This is what happens when they make you play a full nine innings.

May 13
McRae ejected before Tampa Bay's 8-0 loss
Rays manager is tossed after questioning an umpire about Friday's final at-bat in Cleveland.

McRae, LaMar roll up sleeves for rebuilding
Talking casually one day about the work ahead to make the Rays better, Hal McRae said, "We're doing a lot of things, and my job is to chip away at them. I've got to chip away. I never know where I'm going to start, but I know I've got to chip. And I've got to keep chipping."

Rays unconcerned about pay report
CLEVELAND -- Rays players do not seem concerned about getting their paychecks. They are more worried about earning their checks.

Rays tales
WHAT'S UP, SKIP?: The picture is 14 or 15 years old, but apparently has a prominent place in the Rolls' Kansas home. Photo day at the ballpark in Kansas City, and there is little Damian Rolls, all of 8 or 9, posing with one of his all-time favorite Royals, Hal McRae.

May 12
Rays keep sinking, McRae pulled along
CLEVELAND -- The Rays continue to sink into the abyss. And they are dragging manager Hal McRae down with them.

Lopez feels better, but Rays in no hurry
CLEVELAND -- Albie Lopez says he feels fine.

Rays deny report about looming money crisis
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays denied a story in today's New York Times saying they may not have enough money to pay players and employees in the coming weeks.

May 11
Rays give up on Castilla
Tampa Bay caps a $13-million flub by releasing the third baseman (.215 with 2 homers and 9 RBI).

Wilson gets wild in loss
Right-hander hits three and walks six as Rays surrender 2-0 and 3-1 leads to Orioles and lose 9-5.

Hamilton to stay on sideline awhile
ST. PETERSBURG -- Top outfield prospect Josh Hamilton will be sidelined for at least another two to three three weeks with irritation in his back, general manager Chuck LaMar said.

Rays deal puts Ch. 10 in big bind
Rays baseball or Tiger Woods? It's a no-brainer that most casual sports fans would rather spend a Sunday afternoon watching Woods, who odds are will be in the hunt for a victory, than the Rays, who odds are won't.

Rays stuff

May 10
A loss, maybe worse
Albie Lopez hurts groin, Ryan Rupe struggles again in Rays' 8-6 loss to Orioles.

McHale talks hit snag
ST. PETERSBURG -- The restructuring of the Rays ownership group may be hindering the efforts to hire John McHale Jr. as chief operating officer.

McRae: Castilla wasn't singled out
ST. PETERSBURG -- They stood near third base during batting practice Thursday and just chatted, emphasizing points of the discussion with their arms and hands.

May 9
A win with a message
Vinny Castilla is pulled after poor at-bat in Tampa Bay's much-needed 4-3 win over O's.

Rose getting look in starting staff
ST. PETERSBURG -- Circumstances sent Brian Rose to the bullpen. Now Rays manager Hal McRae is taking him out.

May 8
Sometimes, they do see it coming
Insiders admit it: Stealing signs is still a part of baseball.

Restraint pays off for Sturtze
Upset at his bullpen assignment, the Rays pitcher bites his tongue and winds up back in the starting rotation.

Rupe may pursue solution in minors
ST. PETERSBURG -- His debut as a relief pitcher could be classified as a disaster. And there is a chance he soon could end up in Triple A. But the Devil Rays insist they are not giving up on Ryan Rupe.

May 7
Rays waste a Rekar gem
Little offense and a bullpen meltdown sabotage starter's strong work in Indians' 10-3 win.

Saving the Rays: how to get things started
ST. PETERSBURG -- When you have the worst ship in the navy, it figures you would turn the wheel over to a guy named McHale, writes columnist Gary Shelton.

Martinez working on simple things
ST. PETERSBURG -- Felix Martinez sat in front of his locker trying to break in a new glove. Harder and harder he pounded the new leather with a weight, creating some flexibility and seemingly taking out some frustrations left by his old glove.

May 6
Confusion reigns in another Rays loss
Three are ejected in beanball war no one remembers starting as Indians romp 9-4.

McHale is a man of many, many talents
ST. PETERSBURG -- If the Rays hire John McHale Jr. as chief operating officer, as it appears they will by the middle of this week, they will get a man of knowledge, of experience, of substance.

The best Russ Johnson he can be
Rays second baseman Russ Johnson is a true Cajun country boy from Baton Rouge. Here are his honest takes on Louisiana cooking, country life, hard work, meeting his wife, love and lust and gun ownership.

Grieve reaching his yearly turning point
ST. PETERSBURG -- Ben Grieve went into Saturday's game with a .219 average. Certainly not the number the Rays hoped he would be putting up when they traded for him in January, but significant nonetheless.

Rays tales
FRIENDLY FACE: They didn't go through the harrowing plane crash, the food deprivation or the physical danger, but the feeling, apparently, is the same. "We're on an island," batting coach Wade Boggs said. "Right now we're on an island and we're just trying to get off."

May 5
Indians beat Rays in strange game
Tampa Bay continues to get bad breaks, this time from the Trop catwalk.

McHale interviews with Rays; deal may be near
His trip to Florida was brief -- less than 24 hours -- but Tigers president John McHale Jr. may be back soon.

Wilson adjusts to pitching in AL
ST. PETERSBURG -- The glaring difference is the power.

May 4
McRae is in style
His 14-game record is barely better than the fired Larry Rothschild's, but players praise Hal McRae for his communication and understanding.

Rupe is willing to try bullpen
ST. PETERSBURG -- Ryan Rupe says he has never pitched in relief. Not in the minors, not in college, not in high school, not in Little League.

McHale is due in bay area today
ST. PETERSBURG -- John McHale Jr. was in his Detroit office Thursday afternoon conducting business related to running the Tigers.

Rays stuff
Tonight's game: Indians at Rays

Up next: Indians

May 3
Rays get a win to build on
The heart of the order shows signs of life in a 7-1 victory over the Orioles.

Rays catch the eye of Alabama bank chairman
Birmingham lawyer Donald Watkins wants to buy club, keep it at Trop.

McHale deal still several days away
BALTIMORE -- John McHale Jr. has spoken with Tampa Bay representatives and remains on track to become the team's chief operating officer, but the deal is unlikely to be completed until next week.

May 2
Rays on verge of overhaul
Chuck LaMar says he'll start dealing veterans if the team doesn't improve quickly.

Another wasted evening
Bryan Rekar pitches well but the Rays continue to flail away, falling 3-1 to the O's.

Report: McHale, Rays near deal
BALTIMORE -- Tigers president John McHale Jr. could be named Rays chief operating officer by the end of the week.

May 1
For Rays, another day off target
Felix Martinez's throwing woes lead to a spot on the bench, a 5-3 loss and a league-worst 8-18 record.

Huff might start again -- in Durham
BALTIMORE -- Aubrey Huff likely is going to start playing regularly again soon. Whether it is for the Rays or the Triple-A Durham Bulls remains to be seen.

April 30
Tigers, ump put squeeze on Rays
Ace Albie Lopez, frustrated by the strike zone, has his worst performance of the season in a 6-1 loss.

McHale says nothing is imminent with Rays
DETROIT -- Vince Naimoli and John McHale Jr. were in the same ballpark Sunday, and there even was a rumor, unconfirmed, that they may have said hello.

Comerica puts McGriff past Mac
DETROIT -- Fred McGriff reclaimed the major-league record of homering in the most stadiums when he made Comerica Park No. 38 on his list Sunday.

Up next: Orioles
SCOUTING REPORT: The Orioles haven't done much this season, but they are ahead of the Rays, so that's something.

Rays stuff
THE GAME

April 29
Rays coup was months in the making
ST. PETERSBURG -- It was a secret war fought in plain view of thousands of Tampa Bay Devil Rays fans.

McHale noncommittal about interest in Rays
DETROIT -- John McHale Jr. did not say Saturday that he was coming to Tampa Bay to take over the Rays.

Rays triumph by being less sloppy
A 7-3 win over the Tigers is marred by seven walks, three errors and several other defensive and baserunning miscues. "I'll take it," manager Hal McRae says.

Rays tales
HISTORY IN THE MAKING: It was 20 years ago this month, but the memories for Wade Boggs, naturally, are going to last a long time. Boggs was a key player in the longest professional game in history: 32 innings between Triple-A Pawtucket and Rochester on April 18-19, 1981, plus the final inning on June 23.

April 28
Naimoli handing over Rays reins
• What's Next: Current partners expected to retain ownership as new chief officer runs team.
• The Lease: Experts say the Rays' contract keeps them at Tropicana Field even if they are sold.

• Bucs ownership professes no interest in buying Rays
  Spokesman Reggie Roberts made it clear Friday that Buccaneers owner Malcolm Glazer is not waiting for the Rays to be put up for sale.
• Detroit Tigers CEO leads list for Rays job
  John McHale Jr., 52, president and chief executive officer of the Detroit Tigers since Jan. 11, 1995, was born to the business of baseball.
• Investment bankers' role is assessing team's value
  It's hardly as lively as color commentary on starting pitchers and stolen bases, but the Rays weren't talking baseball. They were talking corporate finance when they announced Friday:
• Shake-up needed, business leaders say
  They hope that new leadership will energize the Devil Rays franchise.
• Changes for the Rays: Q & A
  Q: Are the Rays for sale?

Players' focus remains on field
DETROIT -- News that the front office was being reorganized and the franchise might be sold traveled quickly to Detroit. But manager Hal McRae and Rays players say the issues won't cause them any -- or, at least, any more -- problems.

Still waiting for wins
The Rays promise improvement, but a sloppy 4-2 loss to the Tigers leaves them worst in the majors.

McRae ready to see new bullpen pay off
DETROIT -- Manager Hal McRae is pleased with the way the bullpen has been restructured. Now it's just a matter of it pitching well.

April 27
Rays for sale
Naimoli to drop daily duties
ST. PETERSBURG -- For sale: one baseball team, slightly soiled. [4/27]

• Mum’s the word from Rays, MLB
• The general partners
• The evolution of the Devil Rays

Hubert Mizell
Area baseball appetite put to test
Status quo stinks.

Team not moving, officials insist
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Tampa Bay Devil Rays may be for sale, but they aren't going anywhere, St. Petersburg officials said confidently on Thursday.

Loss doesn't derail McRae's optimism
The Royals' Mac Suzuki shuts down Tampa Bay 6-0, but the Rays manager sees reason for hope after a series win.

New pitchers don't have to wait long
ST. PETERSBURG -- Hal McRae has made it a point to initiate his new players quickly after their arrivals. The Rays manager figures the faster he gets them in a game, the less nerves they will have when they get there.

April 26
Solutions for Rays not easy
Naimoli has made missteps, but the stadium, team quality appear to be among larger trouble spots.

Rays can find hope in April of Twins
They play baseball in a drab and belittled dome, operating with a payroll miniscule in comparison with the riches of Yankees, Indians, Red Sox, Rangers and most every other American League rival.

Good things happen for Rays
Solid team effort, a little luck lead to second straight win, 5-3 over K.C.

Bullpen makes pair of substitutions
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays clubhouse swirled with activity Wednesday.

April 25
Partners want Naimoli out
Most of his partners would agree Vince Naimoli is the man who brought major-league baseball to Tampa Bay.

Lopez guts one out
Rough start doesn't phase the Rays ace as he goes seven innings in a 4-2 win over the Royals, lifting Tampa Bay out of baseball's cellar.

White, Seay falling short
Before the 1997 season, the Devil Rays dove into the free-agent market, spending $13.2-million to sign the top two young pitchers that year. The thinking was that Matt White and Bobby Seay would shore up the farm system before moving into key roles on the Tampa Bay staff.

Rose joins pen with a shot at starting
ST. PETERSBURG -- Doing what they can in a tight market to bolster their pitching staff, the Rays claimed Brian Rose off waivers Tuesday.

April 24
Alvarez excels in mound return
ST. PETERSBURG -- Wilson Alvarez arrived at the Raymond Naimoli Complex on Monday not knowing what he was going to find. Not that it mattered.

McRae's second shot a long time coming
No one can explain why Rays' new manager had to wait so long after a solid stint in K.C.

April 23
Rays lose, but in a better way
There's hustle and determination aplenty in a 10-8, 11-inning loss to the Orioles.

Johnson surprises with jolt of power
ST. PETERSBURG -- With two outs in the ninth, a runner on first and Greg Vaughn up next as the potential tying run, everyone at Tropicana Field knew Russ Johnson had to find a way to get on base. Including Russ Johnson.

April 22
Relaxed Rays win first for McRae
Feeling good about new skipper, Tampa Bay rides clutch play to 6-5 victory over O's.

Segui irked at umps after Maier-like play
ST. PETERSBURG -- David Segui hit a liner to leftfield in the second inning that appeared to be snared by a fan in the first row just before it bounced off the top of the wall. After ruling it a home run, bringing Rays manager Hal McRae out of the dugout, all four umpires conferred before changing it to a ground-rule double due to fan interference.

Cash crunch keeps LaMar's hands tied
ST. PETERSBURG -- By about spring training, the Rays finally got around to admitting that last year's plan was a mistake, that a big part of their present-day problems stem from spending millions to bring in veterans who haven't played well or, in some cases, at all.

Another victim of the daily grind
ST. PETERSBURG -- Larry Rothschild is gone. And pitching coaches everywhere are left to mourn his departure.

April 21
Work-in-progress Rays come up short again 6-3
Manager Hal McRae is positive, despite witnessing most of the reasons he wound up with his new job.

Naimoli: buyout statement false
ST. PETERSBURG -- Is the Rays' ownership group about to undergo a change as well?

Martinez is adding offense to the mix
ST. PETERSBURG -- As far as batting stats go, Felix Martinez is in uncharted territory.

April 20
Rays done in by Pedro
After a hittable start, Martinez settles into his usual dominating form for Boston. Tampa Bay succumbs 8-3.

Phelps completes record-setting climb
ST. PETERSBURG -- When the Rays selected Travis Phelps in the 89th round of the 1996 draft he didn't give it a second thought.

Hill sent packing on McRae's second day
ST. PETERSBURG -- The Hal McRae era claimed another victim Thursday as the new Rays manager got rid of his second pitcher in as many days.

April 19
Rays turn to McRae
Foundering club replaces Larry Rothschild with ex-Royals manager.

Debut spoiled by 9-run eighth
Rays fall 9-1 in Hal McRae's first game as manager.

McRae an open-door manager
Ex-players say he's a fine communicator despite volatile image.

Players are sorry, but not surprised
Larry Rothschild's lack of playing experience is cited as a factor in firing.

LaMar challenges Castilla
The GM rips some of the veteran third baseman's comments upon his benching while announcing he has his starting job back.

What they're saying
Well, the Devil Rays solved their problems by firing Larry. That's going to do about as much good as the Bucs firing Mike Shula.

Struggling Harper is sent to Durham
ST. PETERSBURG -- The beginning of the Hal McRae era signaled the end of the Travis Harper era, at least for the time being.

Meet Hal McRae
BORN: July 10, 1945, in Avon Park.

April 18
At home, same tale for Rays
Travis Harper allows three homers in two innings, and the Red Sox cruise to a 10-0 win.

Grieve hopes to ease out of slide
ST. PETERSBURG -- Ben Grieve's numbers don't look right -- not with a .128 overall average, a 1-for-31 slump and 16 straight hitless at-bats -- but the Rays don't think there is anything seriously wrong.

3Bs nudged up the ladder
The impact of Rays third baseman Vinny Castilla hitting the bench Friday in Baltimore was felt, and, in some cases, still is being felt, in clubhouses from North Carolina to California.

April 17
Road trip ends appropriately
O's win 6-2 to conclude a 10-game voyage that included a five-game skid, a 3-7 record and a pair of benching incidents.

Waivers cleared, Smith stays a Ray
BALTIMORE -- No other team wanted Bobby Smith enough to claim his contract off waivers, and the Rays say they are happy to keep him in the organization.

Up next: Red Sox

April 16
Rays don't let this one get away
John Flaherty's homer and Greg Vaughn's two help Tampa Bay bounce back from another early blown lead and beat the Orioles 7-4.

For Staats, the voice never gets tired
The Rays' veteran broadcaster is happiest when he's working.

Flaherty gives kin a treat for Easter
BALTIMORE -- John Flaherty picked a good day to be a hero.

April 15
Vaughn fed up with same old losing Rays
The slugger unloads after too-familiar pitching and defensive breakdowns lead to a 6-5 loss to the Orioles.

Castilla simmers after benching
BALTIMORE -- After a day of reflection, Vinny Castilla was no more understanding of the Rays' decision to bench him in favor of Aubrey Huff and was feeling more like he was made the fall guy for their poor start.

Huff doesn't signal rush to get younger
BALTIMORE -- With the team off to a slow start, with enthusiasm at home already waning, the decision to promote Aubrey Huff and bench Vinny Castilla would seem to be the Rays' initial step toward the future, the first sign of things, and prospects, to come.

Rays tales
ONE OF THE KING'S MEN: Reliever Rusty Meacham grew up in Florida and usually favors country music, especially songs by his buddy Kenny Chesney, but his true love is Elvis Presley music.

Today's game: Rays at Orioles, 1:35 p.m.
WHERE: Camden Yards

April 14
Castilla belongs on bench
It's the shortest honeymoon since Rick Rockwell and Darva Conger. Rick didn't get to first base, and the Devil Rays have had similar problems.

Rays on a better kind of streak
Albie Lopez shuts out the Orioles 2-0 and Greg Vaughn homers in second straight win.

Castilla: 'Get me out of here'
The $7-million player reacts angrily to being replaced at third base by 24-year-old Aubrey Huff.

Prieto sent down, may see new role
BALTIMORE -- Middle reliever Ariel Prieto was sent to the minors to make room on the roster for Aubrey Huff, but the right-hander could be back in a much bigger role.

April 13
Many factors in Rays' malaise
Questions about the manager and front office. Injuries. Surly veterans. Poor play all around. Is it any wonder Tampa Bay is 2-7?

Up next: Rays at Orioles
SCOUTING REPORT: The Orioles were supposed to be rebuilding after losing 88 games last season, their most in 10 years. But owner Peter Angelos couldn't commit to such a plan and instead signed retread veterans such as Mike Bordick, David Segui and Pat Hentgen.

Bullpen improves quickly
BALTIMORE -- There may be no overestimating how crucial it was for the Rays to win Wednesday's game and put the seven-game losing streak behind them.

April 12
Rays win 4-3 in ninth
Flaherty doubles in the winner to end a seven-game skid.

With off-day, Lopez will start Friday's opener at Orioles
TORONTO -- The Rays will use today's off-day to their advantage, skipping No. 5 starter Travis Harper and using ace Albie Lopez to open the weekend series in Baltimore on Friday.

April 11
No seventh heaven
The Rays lose their seventh straight, a 3-2 heartbreaker in 10 innings against the Blue Jays.

Rothschild wants a team with teeth
TORONTO -- There's plenty the Rays have been lacking during their seven-game losing streak. But this is something else, something that goes beyond the need for better pitching or a clutch hit.

April 10
Shelton: Raysball
If you are anything like the rest of us, I know your reaction to the glorious entrance of the Tampa Bay DeeRays unto the 2001 season.

Rays travel to same beats
TORONTO -- The Rays began the process of changing the faces Monday, getting rid of starting second baseman Bobby Smith and adding Rusty Meacham to the bullpen, but the overall look remained the same.

Same Smith, new result: outta here
TORONTO -- In spring training, Bobby Smith looked like a new man. But six games into the season, the Rays decided he was the same old Bobby Smith.

Rothschild mad about Jays' pitch
TORONTO -- Larry Rothschild said there was no question Toronto's Paul Quantrill intentionally threw at Steve Cox in the eighth inning.

April 9
Martinez: 16 strikeouts, 3-0 win
The Rays (1-5) total 17 strikeouts against two Boston pitchers, tying team record.

After talk, Williams returns to lineup
BOSTON -- Game-time temperature was 42 degrees Sunday, but there was a thaw in the standoff between Rays manager Larry Rothschild and centerfielder Gerald Williams.