Rays players, fans react on Twitter to Maddon's departure

Friday, the Tampa Bay Rays announced that Joe Maddon, the team's manager for the past nine seasons, exercised an opt-out clause in his current contract.

Maddon had one year left in his current deal and was expected by many to extend his time with Tampa Bay.

Maddon's departure came as a shock to Tampa Bay Rays players and fans, as he had become a well-known and trusted figure throughout the city.

Many took to Twitter to share their thoughts on the departure.

Players offered their support:

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And those around Florida baseball offered their voices: