Rise of the Rays

NESN.com writer Evans Clinchy muses about whether Carl Crawford is “too good” for the Rays to bring back after 2010.  Considering this is coming from something anywhere near Boston, I’m going to write this off as sarcasm.  In this case, the writer seems like an outsider trying to write about something that he doesn’t know enough about. 

I know it’s in the details.  But, first, there’s this.

After going all the way to the World Series with Crawford leading the way in 2008, the Rays were more than happy to bring him back for option year number one.

I think most who follow the Rays know that Carl didn’t lead the way.  Carl had a bad season in 2008.  He was injured and he struggled more than in any other season.  He returned for the playoffs, but he endured his lowest batting average and stolen base total since his rookie season.

Then, there’s these two gems.

The Rays are no longer looking like World Series contenders.

and

With the Rays out of the playoff hunt for the time being, it makes sense to cut payroll…But on Nov. 9, the Rays threw Crawford a curveball, agreeing to pick up his option and denying the outfielder the chance to join Jason Bay and Matt Holliday on the free-agent market this winter.again.

Threw Crawford a curveball?  Huh?  Like I said, this guy seems like he’s trying to write about something he knows very little about.  He then reiterates his belief that the Rays are nowhere near contention by saying “they have no use for a $10 million outfielder when they have little hope of making a playoff run with him.”

Great!  Let’s hope everyone near to the Red Sox Nation is considering the Rays as a non-contender heading into 2010.  It’s not until the very end of the colum that this guy finally makes sense. 

“If the Rays can’t find a trade that nets them equal value, they should suck it up and fork over the big bucks to keep Crawford long-term. They have a franchise player in Crawford — and he’s way too good to let him walk next season, leaving them with nothing. One way or another, they’ve got to sit down and make a deal.”