TAMPA, FL. – Rays manager Kevin Cash says it feels good to be back out on the field with his players after a crazy past 2 seasons with Covid and the MLB lockout, but he told his team the only goal is to win it all, the World Series.
“We’ve had a long two years,” Cash told me. “You mentioned about protocols. I don’t think it’s been defined yet, how it’s gonna go down. You gotta think we’re in a better place than we were two years ago. It feels normal.”
What’s normal for the Rays is winning. Tampa Bay set a franchise record with 100 wins last season. The Rays captured their 2nd straight AL East crown but it’s not enough says Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander.
“The raw talent of this group is really special,” Neander said. I think that was evident last year and to add someone like (pitcher Corey) Kluber, that over time we’ve talked about the importance of veteran examples that have life experiences in the game and accomplishments he has, that’s huge.”
Kluber is a three-time All-Star and two-time AL Cy Young Award winner and is excited to get a chance to pitch for a ring as well as lead a talented starting rotation. Kluber threw live batting practice Tuesday for the first time and he believes he’s right on schedule.
“My biggest fear coming to spring training is being behind and trying to play catch-up,” Kluber said. “You try to do things too quick. I think you set yourself up for error or injury, trying to do too much too early and you get outta whack.”
Rays open their Grapefruit League schedule Friday in Ft. Myers against the Red Sox.
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