Tampa Bay Rays 2015 season preview and predictions

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Mar 9, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays first baseman James Loney (21) signs autographs before a spring training baseball game against the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

3 Players to Watch

1B, James Loney
OF, Steven Souza
OF, Desmond Jennings

It’s no coincidence all three guys to watch come from the offensive side.

In 2014 the Rays finished fourth to last in the majors with a meager 612 runs. The offseason came and went with the everyday lineup actually declining in talent.

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James Loney at 30-years old is what he is. Coming up through the Dodgers organization the kid was discussed as a possible batting champion. His swing was natural and classic.

Unfortunately, it hasn’t translated to the type of career we all envisioned. Now, he’s slated to be the clean-up hitter for Tampa Bay. He’s going to need to top his nine homeruns (HR) from a season ago if the Rays have any designs on the AL East crown.

We already touched on Souza as one of the more prominent acquisitions for the Rays. His coming into his own at the plate will start with discipline. He’s displayed power in the minors and with only 30 career at-bats in the big leagues will enjoy his first true rookie season in 2015.

Again, we talk about Desmond Jennings. What is he though? Is he a guy who the organization is patiently waiting to pan out and have it all click? Or, is he just one of the many who never live up to the hype?

Last year the now 28-year old hit .244 with 15 stolen bases (SB) and 15 HR.

Next: Keys for Success

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