Dear Tampa Bay Rays Organization, Fans, and Rays Community,
As I sit down to write this letter, my heart overflows with gratitude, humility, and introspection. This moment has been a long time coming, and it deserves to be celebrated with all of my gratitude and honesty. From the first time I put on a Rays uniform to every catch in the outfield, at-bat, victory, and even the tough losses, it’s been a trip I’ll remember for the rest of my life.
When I initially arrived in Tampa Bay, I was a child with a dream: ambitious, enthusiastic, and eager to learn. I discovered not only a team, but a family. The Rays clubhouse, coaching staff, front office, and every single soul that keeps this wonderful organization running welcomed me not only as a player, but also as a person. You allowed me the freedom to learn, fail, succeed, and grow into the man and athlete I am today.
To our supporters, you are the driving force behind everything we do. Whether at Tropicana Field or thousands of miles away, your applause, steadfast support, and belief in me have driven every step I’ve taken. I’ll never forget the shivers I had when my name was called, or the sea of blue and white standing up after a diving catch or a hard-fought base hit. It meant everything to me then, and it always will.
Thank you to my teammates, both past and present, for the camaraderie. We’ve grinded together, bled together, and enjoyed the highs while dealing with the lows. You all made the grind worthwhile. Each of you taught me something that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Thank you to the front office and development staff for believing in me and investing in my growth. You recognized the significance of my tenacity, hustle, and passion for the game, and you provided me with the skills I needed to become more than just a ballplayer. You helped me become a professional.
Tampa Bay, you have been more than just a stop in my career; you have been a cornerstone of it. You provided me with a platform, a voice, and a purpose that extended beyond baseball. You gave me the opportunity to represent a community, give back, and stand for something bigger than myself.
As I look forward to the next steps in my journey, wherever this wonderful game may lead me, please know that a portion of my heart will always be in Tampa Bay. I’ll be a member of the Rays family forever, and you’ll be a part of mine as well.
Thank you for your affection. Thank you for this chance. Thank you for allowing me to live my dream.
With eternal thanks and respect,
Jake Mangum
#15
Forever a Ray.