Daily Journal: ICC's Jennings learning on the go with the Rays
For a third straight year, Tampa Bay is heating up down the stretch and could again earn a spot in the American League playoffs. The Rays’ current leadoff man is Desmond Jennings, a former two-sport standout at Itawamba Community College.
Daily Journal: ICC's Jennings learning on the go with the Rays
Steve Hunt/Special to the Journal
ARLINGTON, Texas – For a third straight year, Tampa Bay is heating up down the stretch and could again earn a spot in the American League playoffs. The Rays' current leadoff man is Desmond Jennings, a former two-sport standout at Itawamba Community College.
Through 104 games, he is hitting .247 with 10 home runs, 28 RBI and 28 stolen bases.
Tampa manager Joe Maddon likes what he has seen but also realizes this is only the start for Jennings. "Des has done a fine job. Been a bit inconsistent overall and he'd be the first one to tell you that. I still believe he's going to be a tremendous leadoff hitter," Maddon said. "You've got to understand how young he is, how inexperienced he is on the major league level."
The 25-year-old Jennings, who can play center and left field agrees. "Could be better, definitely could be better. It can't go anywhere but forward," he said. "Going to try to win some more games and finish the year on a good note."
Heading into this season, he had 80 games >>> click here to read more from the Daily Journal.