Joe Maddon- Manager of the Year

Once again, I've got to reiterate my decision that Joe Maddon must be the MLB Manager of the Year, regardless of what the future holds for the Rays. For the first time in Rays history, the Rays won the season series over the Red Sox, 10-8.
Maddon has managed a team which is on the current pace to set the record for the largest rebound in bullpen era, a differential of over 3 runs a game. When the Rays hit a slump just prior to the All-Star break, the media elite, wrote off the Rays. They were done, it was a good run, but Boston or New York will attain the top spot by the seasons' end. Hmmmm.
Then the Rays lose Evan Longoria, Troy Percival, BJ Upton, there is no way they can maintain their pace with losing the #2 and#3 hitters in the lineup. Guess what? Just as this team has done all season, other players stepped up. Carlos Pena went on a home run tear. Willy Aybar showed how good he is as an everyday player. Each and everyday, it seemed as if there was a new hero which would lead this team to victory.

Going into this season, I believed that the Rays would be improved, but after all the criticism of Joe Maddon and Rays management last offseason, I believe Rays management, which is rooted in the NYSE, built a business plan which was successful. Perhaps more successful than expected as soon, but Rays fans will take it.

Go Rays!!!!!!