To Longo, or not to Longo? That is the question.
By Scott Caruso | February 10th, 2008 | Posted in General
If you’ve gotten the feeling that the Rays are doing everything they can to ensure that Evan Longoria will start the year in Durham, join the club. It sure seems that way, doesn’t it? Really, though, can you blame them for being careful? Look at what happened to Alex Gordon last year; compare that to Ryan Braun (which I’m sure the Rays are also doing). There is plenty of precident to keep Longoria down in Durham for the start of the year.
Well, ladies and gents, I think I’m officially on the “keep Longoria at Durham” bandwagon. You can call me a flip-flopper if you want (I’ve been called worse), but the more I think about it, the more it makes sense to make sure that the future of the franchise is ready to go once he gets that call to the big show. Look, it’s possible that he could come out Opening Day and absolutely mash from day one – but why take that chance? Why not let him stew and cook a little longer at Durham and make sure that he’s really ready for the show? Not only that, but if the Rays play their cards right, they could keep his arbitration clock from ticking and keep him in town for a little bit longer before he starts demanding millions and millions of dollars.
Remember, the Rays made it through the first few months last year without Longoria and the offense did just fine. It was the pitching staff that let the Rays down. That area has been much-improved now, and the Rays should be able to get enough offense out of Jolly Guzbar to remain competitive. We’ve waited this long to see Longoria, why not wait just a little bit longer?
Tags: Evan Longoria
February 10th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
The Rays offense usually goes stagnant in the month prior to the All Star break. Maybe he could be a catalyst if he’s brought up around that time?
February 10th, 2008 at 11:05 pm
I really hope they stick him at third opening day. Although I think some more AAA at-bats would be beneficial, hype is ephemeral satisfaction. Let’s see what the kid can do. Now.