The Draft That Changed Tampa Bay | MLB News

The Tampa Bay Rays are honoring Evan Longoria with a number retirement and Hall of Fame induction — a tribute to the franchise’s all-time great, selected third overall in the 2016 draft. Despite initial focus on pitching and a tense battle with the Rockies, Tampa Bay secured Longoria after Colorado passed on him, letting him sign for $3 million and immediately step into the spotlight. From his early batting practice mishaps to becoming the face of the franchise, Longoria’s impact — both on the field and in the culture — cemented his legacy as the heart of the Rays’ rise to prominence. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/0f17ca255a4066aa