20 Facts About The Tampa Bay Devil Rays

The Birth of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays, now known as the Tampa Bay Rays, have a rich history filled with interesting facts. Let's dive into some lesser-known details about this Major League Baseball team.

1. The team was established in 1998, making them one of the newer franchises in Major League Baseball.

2. Originally named the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, the team dropped "Devil" from their name in 2008 to become the Tampa Bay Rays.

3. The name change was part of a rebranding effort that included new team colors and logos.

Early Struggles and Triumphs

Starting a new team from scratch is never easy, and the Devil Rays faced their fair share of challenges. Here are some key moments from their early years.

4. In their inaugural season, the Devil Rays finished last in the American League East with a record of 63-99.

5. Despite early struggles, the team saw its first winning season in 2008, finishing with a record of 97-65.

6. That same year, the Rays made their first playoff appearance and advanced all the way to the World Series, where they lost to the Philadelphia Phillies.

Notable Players and Achievements

Over the years, the Rays have been home to some incredible talent. Here are a few standout players and their achievements.

7. Evan Longoria, a third baseman, is often considered the face of the franchise. He won the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2008.

8. David Price, a left-handed pitcher, won the Cy Young Award in 2012, recognizing him as the best pitcher in the American League.

9. Carl Crawford, an outfielder, holds the team record for most stolen bases with 409.

Tropicana Field: The Home Turf

Tropicana Field has been the home of the Rays since their inception. This stadium has its own set of interesting facts.

10. Tropicana Field is one of the few stadiums in Major League Baseball with a fixed dome, making it weather-proof.

11. The stadium features a unique catwalk system that has been known to interfere with play, leading to some controversial calls.

12. Tropicana Field also houses the Rays Touch Tank, a 35-foot, 10,000-gallon tank filled with cownose rays that fans can interact with during games.

Community and Fan Engagement

The Rays have always prioritized community involvement and fan engagement. Here are some ways they connect with their supporters.

13. The team hosts an annual "Rays on the Runway" fashion show to benefit the Children's Dream Fund.

14. They also run the "Reading with the Rays" program, encouraging children to read during the summer months.

15. The Rays have a dedicated fan section called the "Rays Republic," where die-hard fans gather to cheer on the team.

Records and Milestones

Every team has its share of records and milestones, and the Rays are no exception. Here are some notable achievements.

16. In 2019, the Rays set a franchise record for most wins in a season with 96.

17. The team also achieved their first-ever 100-win season in 2021, finishing with a record of 100-62.

18. The Rays have made the playoffs seven times since their inception, including a World Series appearance in 2020.

Unique Traditions and Quirks

Every team has its own unique traditions and quirks, and the Rays are no different. Here are a few that stand out.

19. The team has a tradition of celebrating home runs with a "home run horn," a loud blast that echoes through Tropicana Field.

20. The Rays also have a mascot named Raymond, a fuzzy blue creature who entertains fans during games.

These facts offer a glimpse into the history, achievements, and unique aspects of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, now known as the Tampa Bay Rays.

Final Whistle on the Devil Rays

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays have had quite a journey since their debut in 1998. From their humble beginnings to becoming the Tampa Bay Rays, this team has shown resilience and growth. They’ve had memorable moments, like their first World Series appearance in 2008 and the incredible 2020 season. Players like Evan Longoria and Carl Crawford have left lasting legacies. The team’s commitment to community service and fan engagement has made them a beloved part of Tampa Bay.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just learning about them, the Devil Rays’ story is one of perseverance and passion. Their evolution from underdogs to contenders is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Keep an eye on the Rays; their future looks bright, and there’s no telling what they’ll achieve next.