New York investor Stuart Sternberg took control of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays from founding owner Vince Naimoli on Thursday, promising better days ahead for a franchise that's finished last in seven of its eight seasons. The first order of business was to fire general manager Chuck LaMar, who had been with the franchise since its inception. Assistant GM Scott Proefrock and player personnel director Cam Bonifay also were dismissed. "The time has come for dramatic change for this organization," Sternberg said, vowing to make the necessary corrections, on and off the field, to improve the team. Sternberg, who becomes principal owner, appointed Matthew Silverman team president. The moves follow the departure of manager Lou Piniella, who sought a buyout with one season remaining on his contract after criticizing the ownership group led by Sternberg for being more concerned about the future than trying to win now.