The Tampa Bay Rays have rewarded the work of manager Kevin Cash and extended his contract until the end of the 2024 season. A club option could even extend the contract until 2025.
Cash led the Rays, despite a low payroll, to a 90-72 balance, the best of the Rays since 2013. Cash acted as a kind of revolver and implemented the opener, a real relief pitcher who started the game and was then replaced by a Long Man from the bullpen. A tactic that played a big part in the team’s success.
“Kevin brings with him a long list of positive things. It is a pleasure to see him blossoming,” said General Manager Erik Neander on Tuesday. “He deserves this extra time very much. We’re excited about the years ahead.”
Cash’s original five-year contract would have expired at the end of the 2019 season. Cash has been in office since the 2015 season, when he succeeded Joe Maddon, who had moved to the Chicago Cubs.
Cash’s total balance is currently 318-330 at the rays. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Rays have paid significantly less salary (around $275 million in total) than any other team in the league during this period. Nevertheless, they finished 18th in terms of victory rate (.491).
The Rays increased by ten victories in 2018 compared to the previous year and the 41-25 balance after the All-Star-Break was the third best in the MLB. They also set club records with 54 players, 31 pitchers and 23 rookies.
This article was published without prior review by Major League Baseball.