Kevin_ODonnell's Blog

From promising to plummeting, the Rays have stumbled backwards. Just two weeks ago every one was going "ga-ga" over what was looking like the best Rays team to hit the field. But what a 10-game losing streak will do to your image. The Rays hit Kansas City just percentage points ahead of Cincinnati, keeping them from the worst record in baseball.

So are the Rays this bad or is Joe Maddon's skippering stunting this teams growth? I've heard growing criticism from fans all season and I have been quick to defend Maddon. But now this situation has me wondering if Maddon's California nice guy act is wearing thin with the players. It doesn't bother me too much that Maddon is quick to pull starting pitchers even with high school arms in the bullpen. But his lineup decisions are at times questionable. It more than raised my eyebrow when Maddon had Elijah Dukes leading off with a sub .200 batting average and most recently Greg Norton was in the 5th spot with a .188 average. Add in Maddon's commitment to Dioner Navarro as an everyday catcher and you have to wonder what Maddon has been watching in his 33-years in MLB. If things don't turn quickly around keep your eyes out for FIREJOEMADDON.COM. Last I checked it's not online.