ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Tampa Bay Rays owner Stuart Sternberg says this could be a special year for his team and that the budget-minded club will not shy away from spending money to improve its chances of making the playoffs.
Sternberg said before Tuesday night's game against the Boston Red Sox that "money won't be an object" when it comes to considering moves to bolster the roster.
Asked if that means the Rays could make a significant addition, Sternberg said: "By any means necessary." At the same time, he acknowledged money is an "impediment" for a team stretched thin by a payroll of about US$72 million.
Sternberg said the budget remains "well beyond stretched" but that he is committed to doing whatever is necessary to give the Rays a chance to stay in the playoff race.
