MLB

The Rays, who have the best record in the American League, acquired veteran starter Freddy Peralta from the Mets and power-hitting catcher/first baseman Liam Hicks from the Marlins.

CEO Ken Babby meets with councilman Bill Carlson a day after two contentious decisions by the council and CRA board. Meantime, Mayor Jane Castor rebuked council members, eliciting a sharp response from Carlson.

The privately financed development, key to a plan to use revenue from the Drew Park CRA, will include office space that Rays CEO Ken Babby said has drawn early interest from Fortune 500 companies.

CEO Ken Babby says the Rays want Tampa's 3.5% contribution to the $2.3 billion stadium, but "we can't beg." Meanwhile, an Orlando group makes a move as the eleventh hour nears for the Tampa proposal.

Opening day is contingent on owners and the players’ union reaching an agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement. The current labor contract expires Dec. 1, and a lockout is expected.

The Tampa Bay slugger says he expects to play when the regular season resumes this week after X-rays are negative. Four of Caminero's teammates also participated for the AL, which beat the NL 4-0.

Tampa Bay's longtime third baseman makes a final entrance at the Trop from 162 Landing while Tantric gives a live performance of his walkup song, "Down and Out." No one will again wear No. 3 for the Rays.

Predominant features in the new drawings are sky views through the see-thru cantilevered roof and an larger aquarium-like rays touch tank showcased in an expansive plaza entrance.

Parts of Tropicana Field's upper deck will be open Friday through Sunday for "Longo Legacy Weekend," which includes giveaways, a concert by Tantric and the display of Longo's No. 3 above the left-field seats.

Joining third baseman Junior Caminero are Tampa Bay pitchers Drew Rasmussen and Bryan Baker, and designated hitter Yandy Diaz. More could be added if others opt out. The game is on July 14 in Philadelphia.

It's been quite the birthday week for the Tampa Bay slugger. He announced a return to the Home Run Derby while on a record-setting homer run. He also leads in AL All-Star fan voting at third base.

The state's $117.6 billion budget includes $50 million for the college to relocate on the property if the ballpark goes up However, he warned that a financing deal needs to be finalized soon.