Padres News: Blake Snell Shows Love to Former Team's Executives Amidst Rays Series

He also recognizes where he first started.

Before Blake Snell touched down with the San Diego Padres back in 2021, all he had know was the Tampa Bay Rays. Snell has become one of the premier pitchers within the MLB and his performances moving forward will play a key role in determining whether or not the Friars will be able to match preseason expectations.

Snell has recorded a 3.78 ERA in 13 games this season and he has been able to deal out excellent outings as of late. He has become an integral part of the Padres' clubhouse and on a roster with the likes of Manny Machado, Juan Soto, Xander Bogaerts and more, he is still able to maintain a leadership position.

Seeing that the Padres are currently in a series against the Rays right now, it is certainly memory lane for Snell even without the games taking place in Tampa Bay. Just seeing the uniforms is enough for him to remember those early years of his career. However, the 30-year-old LHP has made it clear that he appreciates their management and coaching staff above all else.

🦖 Blake Snell’s last 4 starts: 🔥

0.75 ERA
0.92 WHIP
1 HR allowed
33:10 K/BB
24 innings#BringTheGold | @snellzilla4 pic.twitter.com/hJQLZaqpJS

— Al Scott (@AlScott1998) June 11, 2023

“I’m excited to pitch in front of the people that taught me how to be a man, raised me, taught me how to be a pitcher,” Snell said. “I’m excited to pitch in front of those people.”(Via The San Diego-Union Tribune)

He also showed love to the Rays squad as a whole.

 “They do all the little things right. They play small ball, they steal, they hit. They’re a good team. I’m excited to face a team that I was on for so long and see how their playing style matches up. … They do all the little things right, and they have guys that love each other and pull the same way together. And that’s usually why they’re so good.”

(Via The San Diego-Union Tribune)

Never forget where you first started!