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Tampa Bay Rays: Top Five Players

By Kit Anderson

Jul 8, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Chris Archer (22) pitches during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 8, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Chris Archer (22) pitches during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 29, 2016; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays center fielder Kevin Kiermaier (39) looks on from the dugout during the seventh inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Kevin Kiermaier

Kevin Kiermaier is a solid player that the Rays may look to keep for several seasons to come in their outfield. Kiermaier is similar to the Braves’ Ender Inciarte in that he brings much more to the team than is apparent.

One of the best things about Kiermaier offensively is that he is always a tough out. He rarely strikes out and always seems to be hustling. On a team like the Rays, his effort is noticed and appreciated both by teammates and fans. He has also enjoyed a power surge this season hitting the ball out of the park a career high 12 times.

Kiermaier’s defensive ability is often fun to watch. He goes after the ball with the same hustle that he uses on the base paths. He has brought potential homers back more than once in his career and has the ability to make dazzling plays in the outfield.

The problem for Kiermaier is that his defense is still a bit ahead of his bat. Despite almost always putting the ball in play Kiermaier still seems to go through spells where all he can do is roll the ball over to short. Despite that, Kiermaier is a very good player and at age 26 may continue to improve.

Next: Number Four

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