Damon and Ramirez ecstatic over Tampa Bay Rays’ challenge
It doesn’t get bigger than this - the Tampa Bay Rays have acquired the hitting duo, Jonny Damon and Manny Ramirez. The two veterans are part of the team now and they bring more to the table than just their hitting ability. Both leaguers have agreed to a
one-year deal, each. Johnny is going to avail $5.25 million and an added $750,000 as attendance bonus. Ramirez, on the other hand, will take home $2 million.
Rays’ Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations, Andrew Friedman, was more than willing to talk about the two stars, citing that their contribution would extend beyond the field.
"It's not necessarily them being rah-rah guys or giving impassioned speeches," Friedman said. "It's about how dedicated they are to their craft. And I think given all the homework and conversations that we've had about people, both of these guys are extremely
well regarded as teammates, and also the way they prepare."
Andrew Friedman was quite excited with the move and highlighted the contribution of the duo in the game. He said that Manny and Damon were the right influence on the club that has a large pack of prospects in the mix. The two veterans would not only contribute
with the bat but they would help fix the mentality of the younger players in the team. Friedman also specified that Ramirez and Johnny were more than happy to be back in the fray, prevalent in the American League East division.
The two veterans were not just the only ones excited as the club is as well, given the prospect of a better performance, will benefit from the move.
While speaking to some journalists, Johnny Damon highlighted about the leadership influence, he and Manny would invoke on the club’s roster. He told the press that if the situation would require them, they would speak up. He also acknowledged the fact that
his batting performance would rub off on the youngsters in the team.
"I think when they see the way I play and the way I go about my business, it's going to maybe put a thought in some of these young kids' heads: If they want to play for 15-plus years, this is the way to go about your business."
Damon also talked about his push towards hitting. His bursts of energy got him a lot of hits, and his role in the right side position in the outfield would back up the team to a win.
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