[James Borchuck | Times]

The Rays were a big hit in the Welcome to Charlotte County parade Thursday afternoon through downtown Punta Gorda.

Some players rode on a large team float, other players and coaches rode in vintage cars (manager Joe Maddon was in a Rolls Royce) along Taylor Street, waving and throwing beads to fans, who cheered, clapped and thanked them for moving spring training to the area and congratulated them on their success.

The short parade route ended with an autograph signing session at waterfront Laishley Park.

"This a huge deal,'' said Harvey Goldberg, vice mayor of Punta Gorda.