Oct 31, 2008 10:26 AM EST

The Rays hope to begin talks with Rocco Baldelli regarding a new contract soon.

Baldelli, who hit a solo homer in Game 5 of the World Series, played both right field and designated hitter for Tampa Bay in the second half of the season after returning from a mitochondrial disorder.

"I have a tremendous amount of respect for Rocco on and off the field," Rays executive vice president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said Thursday.

"We do have a special relationship. To be a part of what he's gone through, and see him at the lowest of moments, I think, has created that personal relationship. I'm sure we'll talk in the next few days."

Via ESPN