The MLB Spring Training schedule enters its final week of games as Wade Davis and Bud Norris toe the rubber today. Thus far in Grapefruit League action, the Rays have gone 12-12-1, pulling just above .500 (technically) in yesterdays win over the Philadelphia Phillies.
What to Expect Today
Manny Ramirez did not travel with the club to Kissimmee today, despite expectations he would. According to Marc Topkin, Joe Maddon decided to let Manny rest, who has played a lot and played well this spring.
Today, the Rays plan to feature bullpen candidates Kyle Farnsworth, Cesar Ramos, and Jake McGee in addition to the starter Davis. The lineup will include a lot of hopefuls for the Rays 2011 roster, including Elliot Johnson, fighting for a bench role, Sam Fuld, looking for a 4th outfielder position, and Casey Kotchman, who is reportedly trailing Dan Johnson for the first base role. The lineup, per MLB.com:
Elliot Johnson, 2B
Johnny Damon, LF
Matt Joyce, RF
Sean Rodriguez, 3B
Casey Kotchman, 1B
Reid Brignac, SS
Joe Lobaton, C
Chris Carter, DH
Sam Fuld, CF
Fans can follow the game on MLB Audio today, or follow the light version of Gameday here.