Okay. Three weeks into the season and have some thoughts about Manny and a few other random observations/opinions.
Manny was a fairly cheap big stick but I never was real happy about it. There was so much focus on him that I think it would have been a distraction to the team through an entire season. "Manny being Manny" and such. Damon is much more grounded and someone who seems to lead by example and has the ability to impart his knowledge to the younger players. He's still got a good stick, too. I took notice of Fuld during Spring Training. I like his hustle and focus. I just hope all the notoriety he's getting doesn't become a distraction. It seems that Shoppach has upped his game a bit from last year. Doing better behind the plate and at bat. Starting pitching is meeting expectations. For a bodged together bullpen, they're doing a great job. I like Peralta as the setup man and is also good for longer relief efforts. Farnsworth is looking pretty good as the closer and it looks like he's enjoying the job. We all know Longo has a lock at third, but Lopez is doing a good job filling in. Zobrist has always been one of my favorites. What can I say about someone listed at 5 different positions on the Rays' depth chart. Heard on a broadcast about a rumor that the Nats were interested in Upton. That just wouldn't break my heart at all. I like him as a player well enough, but he just seems to lack the drive and passion I like to see, especially as a tenured player. Despite the naysayers, I believe the Rays will still make a good run for at least a wild card berth. Done for now, cheers!