The Tampa Bay Rays paid tribute to one of their most beloved players, Evan Longoria, with a weekend of celebrations that included his induction into the Rays Hall of Fame and the retirement of his iconic number 3 jersey. This momentous occasion, held at Tropicana Field, marked the culmination of Longoria’s remarkable career with the franchise from 2008 to.
The festivities began on Saturday, July 12, 2026, with Longoria’s induction into the Rays Hall of Fame, joining esteemed company such as Wade Boggs, Carl Crawford, Fred McGriff, Dave Wills, and Don Zimmer. The ceremony took place before the Rays’ game against the Seattle Mariners, which they won 7-1, drawing a crowd of 22,597 fans.
Longoria’s Emotional Induction Ceremony
During the induction ceremony, Longoria expressed his gratitude and pride, stating, “I’m just honored and I’m proud.” The Rays chose to wait until the team had moved back into Tropicana Field following repairs from Hurricane Milton to hold the ceremony, making the event even more special for Longoria and his fans.
The weekend’s highlights continued on Sunday with the retirement of Longoria’s number 3 jersey. This ceremony took place at 4 p.m, just before the Rays and Mariners met in the last game before the All-Star break. Adding to the excitement, the band Tantric, known for recording Longoria’s walkup anthem “Down and Out,” performed a free concert after Sunday’s game outside Ferg’s, next to Tropicana Field.
The Significance of Longoria’s Career
Evan Longoria’s career with the Tampa Bay Rays was nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his exceptional skills as a third baseman, Longoria became a cornerstone of the team, contributing significantly to its success over the years. His induction into the Rays Hall of Fame and the retirement of his jersey number are well-deserved honors that recognize his impact on the franchise and the sport of baseball.
Longoria’s influence extends beyond his playing days. His mentorship and leadership have left a lasting impression on the team and its fans. The Rays’ decision to honor him in this manner underscores the deep respect and admiration they have for him.
A Legacy of Friendship and Mentorship
One of the most touching aspects of Longoria’s induction ceremony was the presence of Soot Zimmer, the 95-year-old widow of former Rays manager Don Zimmer. Soot Zimmer shared a deep bond with Longoria, who had been mentored by Don Zimmer when he debuted in 2008. “Baseball’s been our life, our whole life,” Soot Zimmer said, reflecting on the enduring connection between the two.
Soot Zimmer’s home is a treasure trove of baseball memorabilia, including autographed bats from the 1959 Dodgers, awards, and lifetime passes. She proudly displays her late husband’s Rays Hall of Fame jacket, which he received in 2026. Soot Zimmer’s presence at the ceremony added a layer of emotional depth, highlighting the interconnectedness of the Rays’ history and the enduring legacy of its players and coaches.
As Longoria steps into his new role as a Rays Hall of Fame member, he carries with him the lessons and memories shared with mentors like Don Zimmer. Soot Zimmer’s advice to him, “Enjoy life, and go to a ball game once in a while,” encapsulates the spirit of the weekend’s celebrations—a blend of nostalgia, gratitude, and the joy of the game.
