Projo Sports Blog

Cumberland's Rocco Basldelli, who is nursing a sore right hamstring, will start the season as the Tampa Bay Devil Rays' designated hitter until he’s ready to play in the field. Taking his place in center will be Elijah Dukes.

Dukes found out Friday he not only made the team out of spring training, he will start on opening day at Yankee Stadium.

Dukes, who had a tumultuous year in the minors last season, can’t wait to make his major league debut Monday for the Devil Rays, who also sent second baseman Jorge Cantu to the minors in a surprise move.

“It’s been a long time coming. It’s been a journey,” Dukes said Saturday.

Dukes was suspended for the final month of last season at Triple-A Durham because of a string of on- and off-the-field incidents that threatened his future in baseball.

He made headlines again in January when he was arrested and charged with marijuana possession, but reported to spring training determined to leave his troubles behind and do whatever was necessary to earn a big league job.

Dukes hit .367 with three doubles, a triple and seven RBIs, assuring himself of a spot on the roster.

--ASSOCIATED PRESS

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