Rays manager Maddon demands less of his players
A lack of production from the offense has been by far the Tampa Bay Rays' biggest problem.
A week into August, manager Joe Maddon feels one way to get the hitters to do more is to do less.
As he has in other seasons, Maddon plans to cut down on batting practice and other pregame work routines, suggesting the players arrive later to the ballpark.
"I really want them to do less," Maddon said. "I'd rather go American Legion right now -- just show up and play. There's something to be said for that."
Maddon believes having a long, structured afternoon of drill work is basically "eye wash" that doesn't do any good. He feels at this point of the season they players don't need any extra work, and they have already taken enough swings.
The ultimate idea, of course, is to get more production.
"The guys that are here are capable players," Maddon said. "We have to get the guys that are here to perform at the level they can."
