Rays helped shape Kapler's baseball philosophy

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- As first-year Phillies manager Gabe Kapler walked in from right field, from the clubhouse to the dugout for the pregame workout, he stopped to shake hands and say hello to several people along the way. Ushers, stadium workers, media members.

Kapler ended his 12-year playing career after two seasons with the Rays, in 2009-10. He then spent three seasons as a special assignment scout with Tampa Bay.

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Returning to Charlotte Sports Park, the Rays' Spring Training home, was a reunion of sorts for him.

"It really seems like yesterday. In a lot of ways, it seems very comfortable," Kapler said. "Seeing [the clubhouse attendants], really good to be around…