Don Zimmer, 81, to return as Rays' adviser

Don Zimmer, who has been in professional baseball for 65 years, has agreed to return next season as senior baseball adviser for the Tampa Bay Rays. Zimmer, 81, started his baseball career in the Class D Cambridge Dodgers in 1949 and broke into the major leagues in 1954. He had a 12-year major-league playing career and later managed four teams for a total of 13 seasons. He's also coached for eight organizations. "Zim has been a valuable resource not only for our players and coaching staff, but for our front office as well," said Rays Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman. "We are excited that he will be returning for another season in our uniform, and look forward to many more." Next season will be Zimmer's 10th with the Rays. He serves as a coach and adviser during spring trainings and in pre-game workouts during the season..