The Rays' first official spring training workout for pitchers and catchers isn't until Wednesday, but 40-some players were on the field — and the mounds — Monday.
Probably the most important appearance was by Matt Duffy, the infielder acquired in August 2016 from the Giants who missed all of last season due to complications from a left foot injury.
After an extensive winter workout regimen, Duffy said he has passed every test and hurdle and is fully ready to go for the season with "zero" worries.
"I feel outstanding," he said.
The Rays will be counting heavily on Duffy this year, planning for him to replace traded Evan Longoria at third base and probably hit at or near the top of the order.