They saw the value of veteran influence, as Cliff Floyd provided a voice of reason throughout October and Carlos Pena's calming pregame speech prior to Game 7 of the AL Championship Series was considered a significant contributing factor.

They also found out that they have to get better at fundamentals, as manager Joe Maddon is already planning a DVD compilation to show how much difference doing the little things right can make.

And they saw the need to bolster their offense, as they were virtually shut down for much of the World Series by a Phillies pitching staff that was not particularly deep or overpowering.

The strength of the team was pitching and defense, an old-school, National League-style approach that the Rays proved can work in the powerful AL East. The improvements they made from 2007 to 2008 in their bullpen and their infield were the primary reason for their success and likely will remain a focal point.

With only two free agents (and two others with team options), the Rays are in a rare position of returning a championship team virtually intact.

They do have some holes to fill however, primarily in their bullpen, where the health of closer Troy Percival is a big question, and in right field, where they used an ensemble cast.

Given the team's history, it seems unlikely executive vice president Andrew Friedman will stand pat, as he is in the enviable position of being able to deal young pitching to plug holes.