Rays owner Stuart Sternberg likes the job the team did retooling over the winter, but warns that they don't have the flexibility to make any more changes. "In past talks I've had in spring training, I've responded and said we'll have that flexibility. We don't have that flexibility now," Sternberg said. Tampa Bay's payroll is roughly $61 million, up nearly 50% from last year's number ($43M) on Opening Day. "At some point, you put your back to the wall, and I think that's where we are right now. We, quite frankly, can't really afford what we've got on the field this year. At least we were able to spend the money on a lot of value, we think, and pieces that will give us the opportunity to grow the franchise over the long haul, that gives us the best opportunity for success this year. This was one where somewhat of my competitiveness came out in this. I think we have a real opportunity to win. "It doesn't leave us any flexibility, but if you come around to June or July, the answer might be a little different."