Burrell Getting to Know His New Team

PORT CHARLOTTE | The first step for Pat Burrell is learning the names of new teammates.

The next thing for Tampa Bay's biggest offseason acquisition is adjusting to his projected role with the Rays.

After spending most of the past decade as an everyday outfielder with the Philadelphia Phillies, the 32-year-old slugger is expected to be the primary designated hitter for the AL champions this season.

"I can't lie, it's different. Different faces, different everything," Burrell, three months removed from helping the Phillies beat the Rays in the World Series, said Monday. "But change is good. I'm really looking forward to getting this thing started."

One of the Rays' top priorities this winter was to add a power hitter to a lineup also featuring Carlos Pena, Evan Longoria, B.J. Upton and Carl Crawford. Burrell averaged 31 homers, 99 RBIs and 103 walks the past four seasons.

He also delivered a key hit in the World Series, doubling in the seventh inning of Game 5 to end an 0-for-13 skid. Eric Bruntlett pinch-ran for him and scored the winning run in the Phillies' clinching victory.

Now, he's looking to join Edgar Renteria, Gary Thomasson, Tommy John and Don Gullett as the only players since 1970 to face a team in the World Series and then play for that club the following season.

"Hey, that's part of it. The thing I keep thinking about is when you've been at a place like I was for a long time, you have a hard time turning the page and accepting some of the new things," Burrell said.

"It's going to be an adjustment period for me. But I tell you what, these guys have made it very easy for me as far as making me feel welcome. ... I couldn't be happier with what's happened as far as me getting here."

Burrell signed a $16 million, two-year contract in January after not being offered a new deal in Philadelphia, where he hit .257 with 251 homers and 827 RBIs over parts of nine seasons.

He reported to spring training in advance of Wednesday's first full-squad workout and is getting a feel for his new surroundings and teammates.
"Fortunately everybody's got their names on their back," said Burrell, who batted .250 with 33 homers and 86 RBIs in his final season with the Phillies.

He's eager to contribute any way he can with his team, noting the Rays didn't sign him because they needed someone to carry the offense.

(theledger.com)