In early 1998, Rays scouts on a fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico spotted a strange looking animal. The creature, apparently drawn to the boat by the smell of hotdogs on the hibachi, climbed aboard and soon won the scouts over with his silly antics. During the excitement, a scout had a brilliant idea: make this fun loving fuzz ball the mascot for the new baseball team. "Raymond" as the scouts dubbed him, immediately accepted their contract offer of all the hotdogs he could eat, all the high fives he could handle, and the ability to shake his groove thing to countless Tampa Bay fans.

Raymond's animal-like appearance causes confusion among fans of all ages. His fuzzy face is similar to a walrus and his bulbous blue belly likens him to a mutant manatee. So what exactly is he?

In 2005 marine biologists and zoologists made a startling discovery; Raymond is actually a previously undiscovered species of dog known as "Canus Manta Whatthefluffalus" or in layman's terms, a Seadog. Seadogs have all the traits of normal dogs. They enjoy going for walks, playing with kids, and fetching. Unlike other dogs they are five to six feet tall, walk upright, are blue in color, and chase catfish. While other dogs live on land, Seadogs usually live in or around the water. Seadogs are well known for their fun-loving nature, passion for baseball, and general good looks.

S. Preston's minimalist mascot series is made for the baseball kids, young and old. These artwork celebrates the playfulness of the characters that roam the stadiums.

WHO IS S. PRESTON?

S. Preston is a former sports broadcaster turned graphic designer, who has turned his love of sports and his talent for art into a full-time business and career. "I try every day to change the way sports and art collide," says Preston. His creative and clever sports art has been recognized by the leaders in sports and his artwork is licensed by both the MLB and the NCAA. You can see his designs published in Sports Illustrated, ESPN and Entertainment Weekly.

S. Preston's art can be seen in stadiums across the country - in team stores, team executive offices and in the stadium concourses. He is also a lifetime member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and has several pieces in the national archives.

MATERIALS

Digitally printed on museum grade 100% acid-free 350 gsm archival art paper with velvet texture
10-color Epson Ultrachrome K3 archival ink

Collectors Edition

Hand numbered by S. Preston
Embossed with "Limited Edition" seal
Certificate of Authentication

DIMENSIONS

Small Art Print: 8.5" x 11"
framed: 11" x 14"
Limited Edition 350

Medium Art Print: 14" x 20"
framed: 18" x 24"
Limited Edition 350

Small Art Print: 24" x 32"
framed: 25" x 33"
Limited Edition 100

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