The Rays had a surprisingly good season in 2018, winning 90 games and contending for the second Wild Card into September. Not many analysts or projection systems thought Tampa would be so competitive, but it has become something of the norm for this franchise since their breakout 2008 season.
PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 24: Manager Kevin Cash #16 of the Tampa Bay Rays looks on against the New York Yankees during the Grapefruit League spring training game at Charlotte Sports Park on February 24, 2019 in Port Charlotte, Florida.