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Rays win arbitration case over Niemann
UPDATE, 4:02: With Niemann the last of six arbitration-eligible players to have his salary decided, the Rays are ready to move forward.
“We are officially at the end of the arbitration process for the year,'' executive VP Andrew Friedman said. "We had a number of eligible players this year and we’re happy to have this process behind us so we can focus all of our attention on getting ready for the season.” ... Read more
More details on Feb. 18 FanFest
The Rays have released more details for the Feb. 18 FanFest at Tropicana Field. Of note, manager Joe Maddon's Thanksmas meal is sold out.
Here is the team press release:
ST. PETERSBURG, FL—The 2012 Rays Fan Fest presented by MetroPCS, scheduled for Saturday, February 18 from
10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at Tropicana Field, will feature an unprecedented number of activities for kids. Proceeds from select events benefit the Rays Baseball Foundation and the ALS Association Florida Chapter. ... Read more
Kotchman headed to Indians
UPDATE, 7:37: Kotchman was pleased to have a deal done. "Like I've always said, it's a privilege to put on a major-league uniform and I'm appreciative for the opportunity to be able to go to Cleveland and play for the Tribe,'' Kotchman told the Times.
BREAKING: 1B Casey Kotchman has found a new home, agreeing to terms with the Indians. ... Read more
Dan Johnson to sign with White Sox
UPDATE, 6:18: Johnson said he looks back fondly on his time with the Rays - they made the playoffs in each of his three seasons - and said "there's no bitterness at all" about not being resigned. Also, "the memories are irreplaceable.''
Though the Sox are set at first base and DH, Johnson said he is eager for the chance to compete for a job. Having been hampered by a sore wrist much of last season, he said: "My hope is just to be able to stay healthy and go out and prove myself again and work my way back into a relevant role.'' ... Read more
Garza's AL championship ring stolen from Ca. home
Former Rays pitcher Matt Garza had his 2008 AL championship ring stolen during a burglary of his Fresno County, Calif., home, the Fresno Bee reported.
The ring, laden with diamonds and with Garza's name engraved, was valued at $30,000, police said.
The break-in occurred sometime between Jan. 26 and today.
Garza, who was MVP of the ALCS against Boston, now pitches for the Cubs.
Longoria: No contract regrets now, break bank later
The longer Rays 3B Evan Longoria plays, and the better he does, there will be more questions about the long-term contract he signed in 2008 that can keep him with the Rays though the 2016 season (with three team options) and pay him - only - about $45-million over the nine-year term. ... Read more
Canzler traded to Indians for cash
Russ Canzler didn't really have a home on the defensive-oriented Rays roster.
So after designating the corner infielder/outfielder for assignment last week to make room for the more versatile Jeff Keppinger, the Rays traded Canzler to the Indians for cash considerations.
Canzler would seem to have a chance for playing time at first base in Cleveland, or at least as a righthanded bat off the bench. ... Read more
Pat Burrell - remember him? - retires
Pat Burrell, who starred elsewhere but failed miserably as a Ray, retired on Monday.
Burrell, 35, was hobbled by a foot injury last season with the Giants.
He starred during most of his nine seasons in Philadelphia, including delivering the key hit - a double off J.P. Howell - in the decisive fifth game of the 2008 World Series win over the Rays. ... Read more
Ruggiano declines assignment, becomes free agent
UPDATE, 6:47: Ruggiano said he couldn't see the point in what would have been a sixth season at Durham.
"It was a tough decision but in the end I had to do what was best for my career,'' Ruggiano said. "I enjoyed my time with Tampa and especially with all my teammates and wish them the best.''
BREAKING: OF Justin Ruggiano said he has opted to become a free agent rather than accept an outright assignment to Triple-A Durham. ... Read more
Joyce to host Sweet Swing camp Sunday
Rays OF Matt Joyce is returning to his roots, hosting the Sweet Swing Baseball Camp 9-3 Sunday at the North Brandon Little League (2915 Kings Highway, Seffner). Ex-Ray Grant Balfour and other pros are expected. Cost is $100, with no pre-registration required.
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