Rays introduce signees Damon, Ramirez

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Former Boston Red Sox teammates Johnny Damon and Manny Ramirez were officially introduced Tuesday as new members of the Tampa Bay Rays.

The pair, appearing with their agent Scott Boras and Tampa Bay team officials, kicked off their stints with the team by assuring fans they can still play and will do what it takes to win another American League East title for the Rays.

After helping the Red Sox end a historic championship drought with a 2004 World Series victory, the two have gone their separate ways. Damon last year played with the Detroit Tigers and Ramirez split time between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox.

"This is my dream team," Damon, an Orlando, Fla., native, told reporters. "I'll see much more of (my family and friends). I love this opportunity to come back home and hopefully help this team win a championship."

"I want to show people that I can still play," Ramirez added, saying he could have signed elsewhere for more money.

Both have signed one-year contracts with the Rays. Damon's is reportedly worth $5.25 million with Ramirez signing for $2 million, down from the $10 million he made last season.