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The Blue Blur's Secret Life: 5 Shocking Facts You Never Knew About Raymond, The Tampa Bay Rays Mascot

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Raymond, the Tampa Bay Rays mascot, has been a fixture of the Florida baseball scene for over two decades, but for a simple blue, furry creature, his life is surprisingly complex and full of intrigue. As of the current date in late 2025, Raymond continues to be one of the most active and beloved mascots in Major League Baseball, constantly engaging with fans at Tropicana Field and across the Tampa Bay community.

The "Blue Blur" is more than just an oversized plush toy; he has a deep, strange lore that includes a scientific classification, a controversial past, and a surprisingly high-profile social calendar. This deep dive reveals the most surprising facts about the creature known as Raymond Ray, the official Seadog of the Rays organization.

The Official Biography and Identity of Raymond Ray

Unlike many professional sports mascots whose origins are simple or generic, Raymond has a detailed, if fictional, profile that the Tampa Bay Rays organization actively promotes. This lore gives him a unique identity and helps solidify his place in the team's history.

  • Full Name: Raymond Ray
  • Official Species: Canus Manta Whatthefluffalus, commonly known as a "Seadog"
  • Birthplace: The Gulf of Mexico
  • MLB Debut: June 21, 1998
  • Height: Really tall
  • Weight: Really heavy
  • Notable Features: Large blue, shaggy fur, a long snout, a backwards baseball cap, and oversized sneakers
  • Discovery: According to the lore, a scout discovered Raymond while he was playing in the Gulf, and his fun-loving nature made him the perfect choice to be the mascot for the new baseball team.

Raymond’s debut came during the team’s early years when they were still known as the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His enduring presence is a constant link to the franchise's origins, long before the team dropped the "Devil" from their name.

5 Shocking and Deep-Cut Facts About Raymond

Raymond’s career is filled with more than just high-fives and dance moves. From a bizarre scientific name to a genuine public apology, these facts highlight the mascot's surprising depth and history.

1. He is a "Seadog" with a Latin Name: Canus Manta Whatthefluffalus

Raymond is not just a generic furry blue creature. Biologists, in the Rays' fictional universe, have identified him as a previously undiscovered species of dog: the "Canus Manta Whatthefluffalus". This unique designation translates roughly to a "Seadog," a nod to the team's coastal location and his Gulf of Mexico birthplace. This level of detail in his backstory is rare for a sports mascot and is a key part of his unique charm.

2. The Rays Had to Issue an Official Apology for Him

In one of the most famous and controversial incidents in mascot history, the Tampa Bay Rays were forced to issue a public apology for Raymond's actions. Raymond was photographed holding a fan's sign that made an inappropriate joke mocking the death of "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin. The organization released a statement regretting the "lapse in judgment" and the display of the sign, confirming that Raymond was simply handed the sign by a fan. This incident became a viral moment, demonstrating the fine line mascots walk between humor and controversy.

3. He Was Briefly a Boxer Against MLB Stars

Raymond is known for his playful antics, which sometimes involve mock rivalries and physical comedy. In a memorable viral moment, Raymond entered the ring for a comedic "boxing match" against then-Dodgers players Adrian Gonzalez and Kiké Hernandez. The skit, which saw Raymond playfully "ruin" the Dodgers' mascot, Stomper, showcased his willingness to engage in high-energy, theatrical performances that go beyond standard mascot fare.

4. Raymond Has a Co-Mascot: DJ Kitty

While Raymond is the official Seadog, he is not the Rays' only mascot. He shares the spotlight with DJ Kitty, a cat known for wearing sunglasses and spinning records. DJ Kitty often appears alongside Raymond, especially during high-energy moments and promotional events, providing a dynamic duo for fan engagement and further enriching the team's mascot entity list. The pair frequently appear together at Rays Fan Fest.

5. He Has His Own In-Game Swag Delivery Service

In a unique fan experience, Raymond (or DJ Kitty) can be hired for an "in-game delivery" of a Rays swag bag directly to a fan's seat during a home game. This personalized service allows fans to have a direct, memorable interaction with the mascot, making him a tangible part of special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries at Tropicana Field. This service is a testament to the team's focus on deep fan engagement.

Raymond’s Current Impact and 2025 Community Focus

Raymond’s role has evolved to become a crucial community ambassador for the Tampa Bay Rays. His activities in 2025 reflect the team's ongoing commitment to the St. Petersburg and Tampa area, especially as discussions about a new ballpark continue.

Community Outreach and Recent Events

The mascot is constantly involved in community work, appearing at charitable functions, school programs, and local events to build hype for the team's season. His presence extends far beyond the baseball diamond, making him a true regional celebrity.

One heartwarming recent event involved Raymond personally surprising a 106-year-old fan at her assisted living facility, Westminster Palms Assisted Living, with home game tickets. This kind of personal, high-impact interaction is a regular part of his schedule.

Engaging Fans of All Ages

Raymond is a central figure in the Rays' efforts to engage younger fans. The team provides downloadable activities featuring Raymond, such as Baseball Math, Crosswords, and Line Unscramble games, ensuring the mascot's brand extends into educational and fun content. Furthermore, the annual "Birthday Mascot Race" is a staple event, with one such race scheduled for the 2025 season, solidifying his role in creating lasting family memories.

Whether he is goofing off with star pitcher Tyler Glasnow during a hospital visit or simply taking a playful nap in the aisles of Tropicana Field, Raymond remains the heart and soul of the Tampa Bay Rays' fan experience. His blend of bizarre fictional lore, genuine community commitment, and occasional controversy makes Raymond Ray one of the most fascinating and beloved mascots in all of professional sports.

The Blue Blur's Secret Life: 5 Shocking Facts You Never Knew About Raymond, The Tampa Bay Rays Mascot
raymond tampa bay rays
raymond tampa bay rays

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