Carlos Peña, the former first baseman who electrified Tropicana Field with his prodigious power, recently returned to Tampa and reminisced about his cherished years with the Rays. Though now a broadcaster for the Detroit Tigers, Peña's affection for the Tampa Bay area remains strong.
During a recent Tigers-Rays series, Peña spoke fondly about his time in a Rays uniform. "It's always great to be back in Tampa," he expressed, emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere and the sense of home he still feels in the region.
Peña's impactful tenure with Tampa Bay spanned from 2007 to 2010, followed by a return in 2012 after a stint with the Chicago Cubs. He officially retired as a Ray in 2015, signing a one-day contract to cement his legacy with the organization. His time in Tampa Bay was defined by his remarkable home run prowess.
A Powerhouse in Tampa Bay
Of his 286 career home runs, a staggering 163 were launched while wearing a Rays uniform. His inaugural season in 2007 was particularly memorable, as he blasted a career-high 46 home runs and also tallied a personal best of 29 doubles. Peña quickly became a fan favorite and a feared presence in the batting order.
A Cultural Shift and Lasting Impact
The 2008 season marked a turning point for the franchise, coinciding with a name change and unprecedented success. The Rays clinched their first American League pennant, a moment Peña remembers with great pride. Even while working for the Tigers, Peña remains a staunch supporter of his former team.
"The Rays are a great team, their capabilities and tools are on full display," Peña commented, adding that he wouldn't be surprised to see them contend for a championship.
He takes immense satisfaction in having contributed to the team's transformation. "I'm proud to have been part of laying the foundation here when we went to the World Series and changed the culture," Peña stated. "Ever since then, this organization and this franchise has been a winning franchise, and I feel very much a part of that, even if it's just laying the bricks in the foundation. Trust me, I'm always following." He clearly cherishes the role he played in establishing a winning tradition in Tampa Bay.
Rays' Current Highlights
Here's a look at some recent developments surrounding the Tampa Bay Rays:
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Caminero's Home Run Derby Appearance: Rays All-Star Junior Caminero, a dominant force at third base in the American League, showcased his power in the Home Run Derby. Caminero's selection highlights his impressive offensive capabilities and his emergence as a key player for the Rays.
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Caminero Named All-Star Reserve: Junior Caminero earned a well-deserved spot as an All-Star reserve after a stellar season at the plate. This recognition underscores his value to the team and his impact on the league.
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McClanahan's Rehab Start: Ace pitcher Shane McClanahan continues his recovery process, recently taking the mound in a Florida Complex League game. This marks a significant step forward in his rehabilitation and offers hope for his eventual return to the Rays' pitching rotation. The team and its fans eagerly await his comeback.
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Looking Ahead: The 2025 Season: Fans are already anticipating the 2025 season, eager to see what the Rays can accomplish. The team's commitment to developing young talent and maintaining a competitive roster suggests another exciting year of baseball in Tampa Bay.
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