Evan Longoria to Retire as Tampa Bay Rays Player

Take a look at some of these numbers Longoria put up as a Ray, according to MLB.com. In 10 seasons with Tampa Bay, Longoria became the team’s all-time leader in WAR (51.7), games played (1,435), home runs (261), RBI (892), runs (780), extra-base hits (618) and walks (569). 

Evan Longoria captured 2008 American League Rookie of the Year award

In addition, Longoria was the 2008 American League Rookie of the Year, a three-time All-Star and Gold Glove Award winner, and finished within the top 10 of the AL MVP voting three times.

“Tampa always felt like my home. The three places that I played (Tampa Bay, San Francisco Giants, Arizona Diamondbacks), obviously played the longest there, and it's really always felt like the place that I should retire,” Longoria said. “Especially with not ever really having the opportunity to come back as a player, as an opposing player, it just seemed like this is the best way for closure.”

Tampa Bay president of baseball operations Erik Neander offered some nice thoughts about Longoria and his time with the franchise.

 “Evan Longoria’s place in Rays history is unmatched,” Neander said in a statement. “Evan leaves the game as our all-time leader in nearly every major offensive category. He not only defined an era of Rays baseball – he helped put us on the map. His impact, both on and off the field, laid the foundation for our success, and it’s a privilege to celebrate his legacy.”

Don't be surprised if the Rays retire Longoria's No. 3 jersey. No other player has worn that number since he left the organization. It would be a fitting salute to one of the great Tampa Bay players.