If you've ever wondered what 81-year-old Tampa Bay Rays assistant coach Don Zimmer would look like as a ballplaying bear, we're sorry to hear that. But fortunately for you — and thanks to the Rays — we also have the answer to your question.
The Rays this week released their 2012 promotional schedule, and before Tampa Bay's June 29 home game against the Detroit Tigers, the team will be handing out "Zim Bears" to fans in attendance.
What is a Zim Bear, you ask? Well, as terrifying as it may seem — this is your cue to put away the little ones — it's exactly what it sounds like. Zim Bear is a fuzzy teddy bear wearing a cute Rays jersey, an adorable cotton Rays cap and Zimmer's gigantic plastic face.
The not-so-cuddly little creature is a must-have for every Rays fan, and it's been rumored that Zim Bear's piercing blue eyes also can ward off an army of Pedro Martinez bobbleheads.
But what's best about Zim Bear — besides the obvious reasons, of course — is that he's just one of many off-the-wall giveaway the Rays have planned for this year. In addition to Zim Bear, the team will also be handing out a Raymond cowbell, a pair of Joe Maddon sunglasses, a David Price jersey wallet and an Evan Longoria mini-drum set at games throughout the season.
Of course, fans looking for more traditional giveaways are in luck too. The team will be giving away a number of non-nightmare-inducing items, including an Evan Longoria walkoff figurine, a Jeremy Hellickson Rookie of the Year figurine and bobbleheads featuring the oversized, wobbly faces of Kyle Farnsworth, Desmond Jennings, Joe Maddon, James Shields, Matt Moore and — of course — the Rays' newest terrifying mascot, DJ Kitty.
And if you're there for Zim Bear night, you'll want to be there for the rest of the promotions, too. Because should the Rays' giveaways ever go all Toy Story on you while you're gone — or worse, asleep — you'll need every bobblehead you can get your hands on to ward off an angry Zim Bear.
