Amid the collective clapping and cringing of the recent Manny Ramirez and Johnny Damon acquisitions, another change in the Tampa Bay Rays organization may occur with less spectacle but is certainly worthy of fans’ attention. Today, in a press release, the team announced that beloved Rocco Baldelli has filed his retirement papers with Major League Baseball and will accept a position with the Rays front office. He will serve as special assistant to baseball operations to work in scouting and player development.
From the release:
"From the day he signed here in 2000, Rocco has earned the respect and admiration of both his peers and our fans," said Rays Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman. "Though his playing career has ended, he will continue to make a tremendous impact on the Rays organization. His feel and passion for the game are outstanding, and we're thrilled to have him in this role."
What this means to fans: heartbreak. Pure and simple.
