It's tough not to fall in love with the Tampa Bay Rays. They've put a competitive team on the field for each of the past four seasons, making the postseason in three of those years, and their roster is filled with all manner of "good guy" players. Carlos Pena has a smile that lights up the room, and his optimism is hopelessly contagious. David Price is bringing back the old-time stereotype of left-handed pitchers: they're eccentric, goofy nut-jobs. Evan Longoria is arguably the best young superstar in the game. Super Sam Fuld has used his time in the spotlight to help children with diabetes. And Joe Maddon is possibly the most progressive manager in baseball, and a tireless supporter of all his players and the other local sports teams.
And yesterday, the Rays organization did something special: they had 70 people (36 players, 34 staff) shave their heads to support the Cut for a Cure Campaign. Begun by VIncent Lecavalier, the Lightnings' captain, the campaign raises money to support pediatric cancer research and a variety of local Tampa Bay hospitals and research centers.
You can find pictures below the jump. There are some great shots, although I think Stu Sternberg and Don Zimmer might be my favorites.
If you'd like to donate to the Cut for a Cure Campaign, you can do so here.
All pictures courtesy of the Tampa Bay Times. You can find their full archive of photos here.
Gosh, Don Zimmer really does look like a teddy bear.