PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (WFLA) — Monday marks the first official full-squad workout for the Tampa Bay Rays — and almost all players were in attendance.
Infielder Brandon Lowe dealt with an illness, and outfielder José Siri had Visa issues but should report to the team Monday night.
No surprise, but shortstop Wander Franco was not at the first day of workouts as he is still undergoing investigation for having an alleged relationship with a minor.
The Major League Baseball’s mandatory report date is Feb. 24 before a decision has to be made on Franco’s status for the start of the season, which is the first week of April.
There are a handful of new faces on this year’s team. Outfielder Johnny Deluca, who Kevin Cash thinks will make an immediate impact for Tampa Bay.
“We had a little bit of a get-to-know-you Kamp about a month ago. He came in, and [we] really appreciate him coming from California. We had good conversations.
He’s a guy that can play all three outfield spots. Just watch his batting practice — a lot of talent — so I want him to go out, and just have a good spring, and not put too much pressure on himself. We gave up two good players to get him and Pepiot back, and we’re excited about them,” Cash said.
Deluca joined the Rays with his teammate from the Los Angeles Dodgers, pitcher Ryan Pepiot.
“Whether it’s speed defense, the power I think is going to be increased that’s a big thing is power, and I think just being able to put the ball and play and having power is a big part of my game,” Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Jonny Deluca said.
The two players were dealt to Tampa Bay in the work of the swap, which sent star pitcher Tyler Glasnow and outfielder Manuel Margot to the Dodgers.
