Tampa Bay Rays Trade Third Baseman Evan Longoria To San Fransisco Giants

The Boston Red Sox don't have to worry about facing the slugging third baseman Evan Longoria as often anymore because the Tampa Bay Rays have traded him to the San Francisco Giants.

For Longoria and cash considerations, the Rays are getting INF Christian Arroyo, veteran OF Denard Span, minor league pitchers Stephen Woods and Matt Krook. Part of the cash considerations likely include a $2-million bonus Longoria is due from the acquiring team in being traded, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times.

"It's obviously a tough day for myself and my family," Longoria said on a conference call with local reporters.

The longtime fan favorite and arguably the greatest Rays' player of all-time is leaving a place he's called home for 10 years. During that span, Longoria, 32, took home Rookie of the Year honors in 2008, appeared in three All-Star games, won three Gold Gloves and helped lead the Rays to a World Series appearance in 2008 after knocking off the Boston Red Sox in seven games in the ALCS.

According to Topkin, "the Rays have been reluctant to deal Longoria because of his talent, leadership and the commitment he has shown to them, twice signing long-term, below-market deals."

Longoria, who has played in at least 156 games in each of the past five seasons, still has five years remaining on a six-year, $100 million deal that includes a seventh-year club option. Last season he hit .261 with 20 homers and 86 RBIs for the Rays.

--  By John 'The Dude' Hardiman, 985TheSportsHub.com