Projo Sports Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. _ Rocco Baldelli was greeted as if he was a long lost child when he arrived at the Tampa Bay Rays spring training facility Friday morning.

The ex-Ray and current Red Sox outfielder said it was like a welcome home ceremony.

"God, I got more hugs today than I have in a long time," said Baldelli. "It was nice to see everybody. I knew I would get here and see all my buddies."

The Rhode Island native was the Rays' first-round pick (6th overall) in the 2000 draft and had spent his entire career in Tampa before he signed with the Sox as a free agent in January. Returning to face his former mates, even in a Grapefruit League game, is a little weird.

"It's strange a little bit," he said. "I had been in one place my whole career, but this is the reality of the situation. I play for the Red Sox now, but they are all still my friends even though I'm competing against them now."

Rays manager Joe Maddon said Friday morning he wishes Baldelli all the best moving forward in his career.

"I'm happy for him that he's close to home," said Maddon. "The fans of New England will appreciate him. I think it worked out for both sides."

The Red Sox and the Rays have created an interesting rivalry over the last few years, including a few bench-clearing brawls. When asked who he would go after if there was one during the exhibition game on Friday, Baldelli was quick with his answer.

"I'm a lover," he said. "Not a fighter."

 Tags  Boston Red Sox Rocco Baldelli Tampa Bay Rays

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