Although players tend to come and go from the Tampa Bay Rays, they have had their share of star talent. Which of those players make up their Mount Rushmore?
In some ways, the Tampa Bay Rays history mirrors that of the New York Mets, at least at the beginning of their history. Both teams were woeful for their first few years, showing few signs that they would be ready to contend. But then, suddenly, those young players blossomed together, leading to a World Series run. However, unlike the Mets, the Rays fell short in 2008, losing to the Phillies in five games.
From that point, the Rays continued to be contenders, reaching the postseason in three of the next five years. They had their surprising heroes, with players like Dan Johnson and Brandon Allen contributing in key spots. Retreads like Fernando Rodney and Carlos Pena found a new life in Tampa Bay, suddenly becoming key pieces on a successful team.
Unfortunately, the finances of the game kept the good times from continuing. Virtually every one of the Rays home grown stars has left, either in free agency or in trade, because of payroll restrictions. Those problems can be felt today, as Tampa Bay has not made the postseason since 2013.
Yet, the future is bright in Tampa Bay. There are a number of stellar prospects on the cusp of reaching the majors, with the talent in Durham the envy of any farm system. The Rays second Golden Age may be coming, and if so, it could last for some time.
For now, let us look back, not forward, at the Tampa Bay Rays roster. Here are the players that make up their Mount Rushmore.