Though not official, still pending MLB approval and conceivably subject to change, the Rays roster for the division series appears set. The final piece became apparent when RHP Troy Percival said he is not expecting to be on the roster, meaning rookie LHP David Price will be. As will OF Fernando Perez, as the Rays opted for 10 pitchers and 15 position players.
If all goes as planned, this is what they will submit by Thursday's 10 a.m. deadline:
Starters
James Shields
Scott Kazmir
Matt Garza
Andy Sonnanstine
Relievers
Grant Balfour
Chad Bradford
J.P. Howell
Trever Miller
David Price
Dan Wheeler
Catchers
Dioner Navarro
Michel Hernandez
Infielders
Willy Aybar
Jason Bartlett
Akinori Iwamura
Evan Longoria
Carlos Pena
Ben Zobrist
Outfielders
Rocco Baldelli
Carl Crawford
Gabe Gross
Eric Hinske
Fernando Perez
B.J. Upton
DH
Cliff Floyd
At least five of the players not on the roster will continue to work out and travel with the team, as injured players can be replaced during and between series: C John Jaso, OF Jonny Gomes, RHPs Edwin Jackson, Jason Hammel, and Troy Percival.
Others not chosen include 1B Dan Johnson and OF Justin Ruggiano. C Shawn Riggans and INF Reid Brignac are continuing their recoveries from injury and could be available, if needed, in later rounds.
Joe Maddon, Johnny Damon and Evan Longoria are only some of the Rays you'll meet through our new video interview series. Don't see your favorite player yet? Check back often, as we'll add to the series as the season progresses.
