A New Season Brings New Set Of Challenges

Now that they've arrived, the Rays are eager to prove they belong.

The American League's perennial doormats improved by 31 games and reached the World Series last year. They are well aware things can change quickly once the hunter becomes the hunted.

"This year, the expectation level will be different and we know that," said reliever J.P. Howell, whose dynamic turnaround in 2008 symbolized Tampa Bay's startling ascension to elite status. "I could tell in the spring that our talent was coming together. We were able to block out all the excitement last season and kept our focus.

"Teams may look at us differently this year, and that's OK. We won't be caught up in all that. With our new guys, we have a chance to be even better."

Performance specialist Ken Ravizza has been working with the Rays to ensure they adopt the proper mental approach for the challenges ahead.

"Embrace the target," he said Sunday. "Other teams are going to give you their best game - isn't that what you want? As far as last year's success is concerned, you tasted it. Savor it. You should want more of it. Above all, keep working the process."

SOMETHING TO PROVE

Carlos Hernandez, who hasn't gripped a major-league baseball since 2004, can't wait for Wednesday's Grapefruit League opener.

The 28-year-old southpaw has been tabbed as Tampa Bay's starter against the Reds and Hernandez is understandably anxious.

"I'm excited about it and I think I'm ready," said Hernandez, coming off two shoulder surgeries. "This is a chance and I'm not going to let this go."

Hernandez made six starts with Vero Beach last summer and Manager Joe Maddon is intrigued with his potential.

"I'm looking forward to giving them a good two innings Wednesday," Hernandez said. "I know it's going to be a battle in camp. There's a lot of pitchers here looking for the same thing I'm looking for."

The Rays announced Jason Hammel, Randy Choate, Lance Cormier, Howell, Neal Frontz and Mitch Talbot also are scheduled to pitch against the Reds. Wade Davis will start Thursday against the Yankees at Steinbrenner Field, while Jeff Niemann starts Friday at home against the Red Sox.

FROM A DISTANCE

Veteran 3B Morgan Ensberg, signed two weeks ago as a free agent, enjoyed watching the 2008 Rays on their magical mystery tour.

"What I thought was amazing is the athleticism of this team," he said. "You could tell just by watching the way they run and hit. They really seem to love playing ball and that's great, because this game wears on you. Now that I'm in the clubhouse with these guys, I can see why they were so successful last year."

EXTRA BASES

OF Matt Joyce, obtained from Detroit in December, is hampered by a sore right calf. ... DH Pat Burrell said he ran out of gas on the way to Charlotte Sports Park on Sunday morning, forcing him to hitchhike to a gas station. ... Maddon said 19-year-old Tim Beckham, the first pick in the 2008 June draft, is likely to see some action at shortstop against Cincinnati. ... The Rays will stage an open house for fans today at the complex, beginning at 10 a.m.