Tampa Bay Rays Tickets

2010 Tampa Bay Rays Season Preview The Tampa Bay Rays couldn't make good on a return trip to the playoffs, but they certainly have the talent to get back there in 2010.

A ridiculous amount of injuries combined with a terrible back end of the bullpen spelled disaster for the Rays in 2009, but they still managed a third-place finish in the ultra-competitive American League East.

When you look at Tampa Bay's roster, it's hard to find a lot not to like. They are incredibly young and talented, which is always a great combination.

You really have to love the Rays starting rotation. It's led by bulldogs James Shields and Matt Garza, who both have nasty stuff and can really bring the heat.

Then there's David Price, the former No. 1 draft pick who could be ready for a full season in the starting rotation at the big league level. He has shown flashes already both in the rotation and bullpen.

Andy Sonnanstine showed remarkable improvement last year and has become a solid, innings-eater type of pitcher, while Jeff Niemann rounds out the rotation.

As young and talented as the starting rotation is, you can't forget about some of the great players in the field, too.

Third baseman Evan Longoria is one of the top players at his position in all of baseball and should only continue to get better. He hits for a high average, has a lot of pop in his bat and plays good defense.

On the other side of the infield, first baseman Carlos Pena will look to rebound from a disappointing 2009 season. Pena still showed he can smack home runs with the best of them, but his average dipped well below .240.

The outfield is led by Carl Crawford, who can hurt you in so many different ways. Not only can he drive in runs, Crawford is a menace on the base paths and can distract even the most focused pitcher.

After missing the playoffs last year, the Rays should be re-energized and ready to challenge the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox in the American League East.