In order to deepen my appreciation for baseball and its history, I have embarked on an effort to create a “dream team” for each franchise in the American and National Leagues, from the time it began play in its current location, or from 1947 (whichever is earlier). I present each team in batting order (the starting pitcher bats 9th), and include three more starting pitchers, five relief pitchers, as well as the best player, hitter, and fielder not in the starting lineup.
* = Left-handed batter or pitcher. # = Switch-hitter.
Tampa Bay Rays (from 1998)
- Carl Crawford, LF (2002-2010) *
- B.J. Upton, CF (2004 & 2006-2012)
- Ben Zobrist, 2B (2006– ) #
- Evan Longoria, 3B (2008– )
- Carlos Pena, 1B (2007-2010 & 2012) *
- Aubrey Huff, RF (2000-2006) *
- Toby Hall, C (2000-2006)
- Julio Lugo, SS (2003-2006)
- David Price, P (2008– ) *
Player: Jason Bartlett, SS (2008-2010); Hitter: Fred McGriff, 1B (1998-2001 & 2004) *; Fielder: Sean Rodriguez, IF (2010– )
Other starting pitchers:
- James Shields (2006-2012)
- Scott Kazmir (2004-2009) *
- Jeremy Hellickson (2010– )
Relief pitchers:
- Jim Mecir (1998-2000)
- Roberto Hernandez (1998-2000)
- Grant Balfour (2007-2010)
- Rick White (1998-2000)
- J.P. Howell (2006-2009 & 2011-2012) *
Even those who play in domes find moments of brilliance. Although no one is going to be overly impressed by this dream team, the Tampa Bay Rays can boast some legitimately great players in their short history, along with a World Series appearance. Carl Crawford would fit in on practically any all time greats roster, as would Ben Zobrist and Evan Longoria –and the latter two are on the actual Rays roster. As with any young team, however, change is on the way. Huff Daddy’s right to right field is not guaranteed by any means, and Fernando Rodney is on his way to the bullpen. The future of this (by all accounts) well-run franchise is bright; their fans hope that future includes some actual sunshine, I think.
Sunlight in a Jar 
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