Compromise of the day
About 30 Rays players, coaches and staff members are expected to shave their heads before today's game to raise funds for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Bench coach Dave Martinez unsuccessfully tried to convince RF Wil Myers to shave his trademark hair. "He doesn't want to mess that 'do up," Martinez said. Myers said he will, however, buy five haircuts at the event.
Quote of the day
"He can't throw the ball any better than he is right now."
Rays manager Joe Maddon, on RHP Brandon Gomes, left, who has allowed one hit and struck out eight in 52/3 spring innings.
Who is this Ray?
He played for the University of Florida despite his father, Bien, a brief big-leaguer, being a Florida State All-American. He's a versatile infielder who was acquired from the Padres in the Jason Bartlett trade.
The dish
Rays vs. Red Sox
When/where: 1:05 today; Charlotte Sports Park, 2300 El Jobean Road, Port Charlotte
TV/radio: Sun Sports; 620-AM
Tickets: Sold out
Gates open: 11 a.m.
Directions: Driving time from the bay area is 1½-2 hours. Suggested route: I-75 south to Exit 179 (Toledo Blade Road), go west 6½ miles (crossing U.S. 41) to El Jobean Road (SR 776), go right 2 miles, complex is on the left.
Parking: $10; lots open at 10.
Rays information: Toll-free 1-888-326-7297 (FAN-RAYS)
Pitchers: Rays — LH David Price. Red Sox — RH Allen Webster, Drake Britton, Rich Hill, Francisco Cordero, Brayan Villarreal
Heads-up
Today is the only game at Charlotte Sports Park this spring with instant replay available.
Exhibition schedule
All games 1:05 unless noted
March
17 OFF
18 at Twins, 7:05
19 at Orioles
20 Twins, 7:05
21 Blue Jays
22 Orioles
23 at Red Sox
24 at Twins
25 Red Sox
26 Orioles 7:05
27 at Orioles, 7:05
28 at Tigers
29 at AA Montgomery (Ala.), 3:05
Who is this Ray: INF Cole Figueroa
Spring in photos
Going to a spring training game in Florida? We want to see your photos. Post them on our Facebook wall at Tampa Bay Times Sports or tag them #springtrainingFL on Twitter and/or Instagram and we'll add them to our online gallery.
Follow our coverage all spring on The Heater blog (tampabay.com/blogs/rays) and on Twitter @TBTimes_Rays.
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