With Giants third baseman Evan Longoria set to face his former team for the first time Friday, here’s a look at Longoria’s five biggest moments with the Rays:
5. 2008: A case for defense
Longoria’s signature defensive play became the barehanded pickup of a bunt and throw to first. He served notice that June in win over Lou Piniella’s Cubs, getting the final out.
4. 2017: Cycle time
With help from the replay system, Longoria joined B.J. Upton as the only Rays to hit for the cycle with his Aug. 1 effort in Houston
3. 2013: Game 163 homer
After the Rays completed a September rally to tie Texas for the wild-card spot, Longoria hit a two-run homer to back David Price’s complete game to send the Rays on to Cleveland.
2. 2008: Postseason party
Wrapping a debut season that would end with the AL Rookie of the Year award, Longoria homered on his first two playoff swings, and a record six times in the postseason.
1. 2011: Game 162 homer
Capping what some consider baseball’s greatest night, Longoria’s 12th inning walkoff blast, his second homer of the day, launched the Rays into the playoffs in a game they trailed 7-0. He joined Bobby Thomson as the only players to hit walkoff homers in the final regular season game to put their team into the postseason.