Rays manager Joe Maddon made his appearance in the MLB media room this afternoon. Here are some highlights of his comments:

* On their prospects for 2013:  "I like the pieces that we have ... It's a great core group, a group that won a lot of games over the past few years ... We're going to be good again next year. Trust me, we're going to be really good.''
 
* On the possibilty of trading a starter: "I've come to grips that it may happen; Do I want it to happen, not necessarily.""

* If they had to play today, Zobrist would be at short and Roberts at second - "probably that's accurate" but "possibly" things "could unfold that alter the face of that.''

* With right mix, "optimal situation" would be to keep Jennings in left field.

* Couldn't confirm Loney deal, but speaking of him as a player: "Really impressed with the quality of his at-bats .. great defender ... real calmness about his approach to the game ... a lot of things i've lived ... been liking him for several years .. Andrew and I have been talking about him for a while.''

* Felt 100 games was about for C Jose Molina, would plan on about same template for 2013.

* Will take time with Longoria in spring coming off surgery, likely to start playing in early March, similar to "normal" spring.

* He is open to more instant replay, but hopes it will be simple.