James Shields is hopeful that he'll remain with the Rays next season.
Tampa Bay has a $7.5 million option on the starter's contract for the 2012 season.
"I believe I'm going to be back next year, and I think (executive VP Andrew) Friedman feels the same way," Shields said on 620-WDAE.
"Obviously there's a lot of offseason to go. As far as my opinion, I believe I'm going to be back. But it's a business and you never know what's going to happen. As far as I'm concerned, I want to be back, I definitely want to be part of the team."
The Rays can buy out his option for $2 million.
James Shields: 'I Believe I'm Going To Be Back'