The Rays’ upcoming series with the Red Sox in the Dominican Republic is poised to be a showcase for Jose Siri. The Red Sox plan to feature two of baseball’s prominent Dominican stars, Pedro Martinez and David Ortiz, for the ceremonial first pitches in Saturday’s opener.
Despite Carlos Pena, the most successful Dominican player in Rays history, being unable to join due to scheduling conflicts, the spotlight now falls on centerfielder Jose Siri, the team’s current popular Dominican player. With Wander Franco absent due to an uncertain future amidst allegations, Siri is ready to seize the opportunity, catching one of the first pitches and participating in a pregame news conference.
Expressing excitement to play in front of family and friends, Siri, a native of Sabana Grande de Boya, aims to enjoy the experience and connect with fans. Playfully, he mentioned using the series to showcase new designs with his El Rayo nickname.
The series will not only feature baseball but also a touch of Dominican entertainment. MLB has enlisted Dominican entertainers like Natti Natasha and El Alfa, with a postgame fireworks show on Saturday and a DJ performance on Sunday. Dignitaries, including Dominican president Luis Abinader, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, and players union chief Tony Clark, are expected to attend.
The Rays have included all their Dominican-born and many other Latin American players on the 30-man roster for the series. The team gave veterans the option to travel or stay home. The roster features a mix of pitchers, catchers, infielders, and outfielders, including standout Randy Arozarena.
On the technical side, Yoniel Curet will start for the Rays on Saturday, Aaron Civale on Sunday, and Naoyuki Uwasawa in relief. MLB Network will broadcast both games live. The Rays will use the first-base dugout, jerseys and caps will feature a special patch, and several players will participate in an MLB Play Ball clinic with Dominican kids.
The Rays are extending the experience beyond the field, offering a tour of their Dominican academy to the traveling party. The team has also invited sponsors on the trip, planning a reception and various outings before the games. The trip from the airport to the hotel was accompanied by a police escort, emphasizing the significance of this unique series in the Dominican Republic.
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