Rays recall outfielder Kiermaier from Triple-A

CINCINNATI -- The Rays recalled outfielder Kevin Kiermaier from Triple-A Durham prior to Friday night's game against the Reds at Great American Ball Park.

Kiermaier, who turns 24 on April 22, was hitting .310 with two home runs, a triple and a stolen base in seven games with the Bulls this season.

"[I] just told myself to stay simple," Kiermaier said of his promotion. "And I felt pretty good the whole Spring Training. I just want to carry that over into the regular season, when it really counts. ... Seeing it well. I've had good results so far. It's always nice to get off to a good start and have something to work with and get your confidence going."

Kiermaier is best remembered for joining the Rays' roster for the Game 163 tiebreaker at Texas last season, and he appeared in the American League Wild Card Game at Cleveland as well.

"Someone was joking, 'Finally, your first time getting some service time,'" Kiermaier said. "Still kind of feels the same. I didn't really sleep last night. I was really excited to get up and get on a plane and get here."

Kiermaier said he's been in Cincinnati twice before to watch games.

"To be up here and maybe get into the game is really cool," Kiermaier said.

Home is three hours away for Kiermaier, who said his parents will make the trip from Fort Wayne, Ind., for Friday's and Saturday's games.

"So it's going to be really cool for them and for me," Kiermaier said. "I couldn't ask for a better city to start off."