The Tampa Bay Rays are coming off an 80-82 campaign in 2017. The Rays played like contenders in the first half of the season, but they fell off late and missed the postseason. Manager Kevin Cash enters his 4th season as manager of the Tampa Bay Rays.
The lineup will be without last year’s best hitters, Evan Longoria and Logan Morrison. Longoria, who was the face of the franchise for 10 years, was traded to the San Francisco Giants in December. However, Corey Dickerson looks to lead a revamped lineup in 2018. The outfield is solid, with Kevin Kiermaier, Steven Souza Jr., and Denard Span penciled in as the starters. Kiermaier, who has won a Gold Glove during two of the past three seasons, is arguably the best defensive center fielder in baseball, while Souza Jr. has 30+ home run power. Denard Span comes over from the Giants via the Evan Longoria trade. Catcher Wilson Ramos enters his first full season healthy with the Rays, and infielder Brad Miller will look to regain his 2016 form.
The pitching staff is led by ace Chris Archer. Archer is consistently towards the top of the league in strikeouts, despite a higher ERA the past two seasons. Nathan Eovaldi expects to make his Rays debut in 2018 after missing all of last year recovering from Tommy John surgery. Jake Odorizzi and Blake Snell also add depth to the Rays rotation. Closer Alex Colome will look to replicate last year’s success, when he led the MLB with 47 saves.
Tropicana Field has many different suite options to choose from. The most popular tend to be the infield and baseline suites that can accommodate groups of up to 16 people. With your suite, you will also receive VIP parking, private entry into Tropicana Field and exclusive access to VIP lounges. Tampa Bay Rays suites will feature HDTVs, Wi-Fi, premium in-suite catering options, upscale furnishing, and a dedicated suite attendant. A Rays suite provides the perfect setting for both business and time with friends and family.
