On Friday night, multiple sources reported that the Tampa Bay Rays signed free agent outfielder Johnny Damon. The 16-year veteran will reportedly join former teammate Manny Ramirez in Tampa Bay.
Johnny Damon Signs With Rays, Will Join Ex-Boston Teammate Manny Ramirez, According To Reports
Interestingly enough, the Rays apparently believe that Damon is the surer bet. Sports Illustrated’s Jon Heyman tweets:
#rays salvage with winter with pair of ex-red sox. they have questions about manny but believe damon will help. #doubleplay
Damon, age 37, spent his 2010 season in Detroit, where he hit .271 and posted a .756 OPS. His eight home runs represented a significant drop in power from his 2009 campaign, which saw him hit 24 home runs. With the Rays, he’s expected to serve as the regular in left field.
This will be Damon’s sixth major-league team, having previously played for the Royals, Athletics, Red Sox, Yankees, and Tigers. With over 2,500 hits, some may give him Hall of Fame consideration after he retires.
For more on Johnny Damon and the Yankees, check in with our Tampa Bay Rays blog, DRaysBay.
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