In an eventful afternoon at Port Charlotte, Jake Fraley showcased his talents in the Rays’ 12-1 victory over a Twins split squad. Fraley, a seasoned 30-year-old veteran who rejoined the Rays on a $3 million, one-year deal, delivered an impressive performance both in the field and at the plate.
Fraley's day was highlighted by two remarkable diving catches in right field, demonstrating his defensive prowess. The first catch came with an unexpected twist as his belt broke during the dive. "My belt stuck in the ground, and when I went forward, it just snapped right off," Fraley explained, adding that he played beltless for the remainder of the inning until the bullpen supplied a replacement.
His second diving catch was even more spectacular, earning praise from manager Kevin Cash. "You want to see that early on," Cash remarked. "If Jake Fraley is diving around here on Game 3 or 4 of spring training, that sends a message to everybody."
Offensively, Fraley shined with a bases-clearing double, clocking in at 101.8 mph off the bat. His performance was a testament to the work he’s put in with new first base/outfield coach Corey Dickerson. "I was probably more excited by the double," Fraley admitted, clearly enjoying his return to form.
On the mound, Joe Boyle made a strong impression in his first spring game appearance. Building on adjustments from last season, Boyle allowed just one hit over two innings, striking out two and hitting 98.5 mph with his fastball. "I felt good," Boyle said, acknowledging areas for improvement but pleased with his start.
Manager Kevin Cash was encouraged by Boyle’s performance, particularly his control and the addition of a new sweeper to his pitching arsenal. "He came in, filled up the strike zone, looked really good," Cash noted.
With Nick Martinez and Steven Matz securing spots in the rotation, Boyle is poised to either take on a long relief role in the majors or start in Triple A. "I’ll do whatever they need me to do," Boyle stated, ready to embrace any role the team envisions for him.
Cam Booser continued his impressive comeback, delivering another hitless outing. Meanwhile, Yandy Diaz and Hunter Feduccia added to the offensive fireworks with home runs, and Junior Caminero drove in three runs.
Looking ahead, top pitching prospect Brody Hopkins is set to make his first big-league exhibition start, with family in attendance. Manager Cash also provided updates on other players, noting Chandler Simpson's tentative return and Gavin Lux dealing with typical spring soreness.
Stay tuned for more coverage on the Rays and other Tampa Bay sports teams as the season unfolds.