Evan Longoria
The best player in the Tampa Bay Rays franchise's history.
Evan Michael Longoria (born October 7, 1985), nicknamed "Longo," is an American former professional baseball third baseman who played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Tampa Bay Rays, San Francisco Giants, and Arizona Diamondbacks. He played for the Rays from 2008 through 2017. Longoria was named the 2008 American League Rookie of the Year and made the All-Star team three times, being selected from 2008 to 2010. He won three Gold Glove Awards at third base, in 2009, 2010, and 2017. Longoria owns many Rays franchise records, including the career records for games played, runs, doubles, home runs, runs batted in, walks, and Wins Above Replacement, and is thus often considered the best player in the franchise's history.
Quick Facts
- Position
- Third baseman
- Born
- 7 October 1985
- Birthplace
- Downey, California, U.S.
- Bats
- Right
- Debut league
- MLB
- Debut date
- April 12
- Debut year
- 2008
- Debut team
- Tampa Bay Rays
Lore & Background
Longoria was selected by the Rays in the first round as the third overall pick in the 2006 MLB draft. After two seasons in the minors, he made his major league debut for the Rays in 2008. On April 18, 2008, the Rays signed him to a six-year, $17.5 million contract with options for 2014, 2015, and 2016. There was a general consensus that this contract was among the most team-friendly, in terms of dollars per Wins Above Replacement, in Major League Baseball.
Longoria appeared in two World Series, first with the Rays during his rookie season in 2008. He had one of the biggest hits in Rays' history when he hit a 12th-inning walk-off home run in the last game of the 2011 season, breaking a tie with the Boston Red Sox in the race for the American League wild card spot, and sending his team into the postseason. Longoria was known for his acrobatic defense, having won three Gold Glove Awards at third base.
Did You Know?
- Longoria was the first rookie and second player overall to homer in his first two postseason at bats, doing so in 2008.
- Longoria set the rookie mark for most home runs (4) hit in a postseason series in 2008, breaking Miguel Cabrera's record.
- Longoria won the 2008 AL Rookie of the Year Award unanimously, the first player to do so since Nomar Garciaparra in 1997.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Evan Longoria?
Evan Longoria, affectionately known as 'Longo,' is the undisputed face of the Tampa Bay Rays franchise who served as their primary third baseman from 2008 to 2019. He is widely regarded as the heart and soul of the organization, symbolizing the team's rise from an expansion club to a perennial playoff contender.
What were Evan Longoria's primary roles and achievements?
As a third baseman, Longoria was a two-way threat who earned seven All-Star selections, six Silver Slugger Awards, and three Gold Glove Awards during his tenure. His exceptional defensive skills and powerful hitting made him the symbolic anchor for the Rays throughout their most successful era.
How did Evan Longoria's time with the Rays conclude?
Longoria spent his entire Major League career with the Tampa Bay Rays until he was traded in 2019, marking the end of his 12-year run with the club. His departure concluded an era where he was the central figure in the franchise's identity and local pride.
Did Evan Longoria play for any other teams?
No, Evan Longoria played his entire Major League career exclusively for the Tampa Bay Rays from his debut in 2008 until his departure in 2019. This unwavering loyalty to a single franchise is a major reason he is revered as the organization's greatest icon.
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