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Former teammates full of praise for David Price

By Rachel G. Bowers Globe Staff,December 3, 2015, 10:21 a.m.
Marcus Stroman (right) paid homage to David Price in a lengthy Instagram post.Darren Calabrese/Associated Press

After news broke that the Red Sox reached a record-breaking deal with ace David Price, several former teammates sent along nothing but well wishes.

Price, whose deal is for seven years and $217 million, has been lauded for his personality in the clubhouse and reputation for being a good teammate.

Here is what his former teammates in Tampa Bay said:

“I’m really happy for him because I know how hard he works and cares,” third baseman Evan Longoria said. “And as I’m sure you have heard, he’s the best teammate anyone could ask for.’’

“There is no one more deserving in baseball to be given a contract of that magnitude than David,’’ Rays catcher Curt Casali said.

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“On a personal level I’m beyond thrilled for David. I think he’s worth every penny, on and off the field. The city will never be disappointed with his effort,’’ Rays ace Chris Archer said.

A fellow pitcher with the Toronto Blue Jays, Marcus Stroman, paid homage and thanked Price in a lengthy Instagram post.

View this post on Instagram

Even though our time together was limited, you took every opportunity to take me under your wing and teach me your ways. For that, I am forever thankful. Watching and critiquing my bullpens. Treating everyone with class and respect. Putting your teammates first. Showing up early, and staying late. Forming a bond with every single guy on the team. I could go on forever. Thank you @davidprice14. Thankful and lucky to have been your teammate and to call you a friend. You deserve every single penny. More than deserving. Going to miss you at the top step after every inning. With that being said, I can't wait to compete against you. Excited already thinking about it. Thank you for everything CHAMP. Looking forward to beating you every chance I get for many years to come! #TylenolPM

A post shared by Marcus Stroman (@mstrooo6) on

Stroman congratulated Price on Twitter as well before echoing a common sentiment: Excitement that Price is staying in the AL East, his third stop in the division.

“Him coming back to the AL East is going to be a fun challenge for us and the division,” Archer said. “This definitely adds a little fire under us knowing we will continue to compete against the best for the top spot in our division.’’

“It’s always different facing him,’’ Longoria said. “I haven’t had great success against him, but it will be cool to see him more often now. It’s always fun when you play with, or against, someone as competitive and talented as DP.”

“He is a culture changer,” Casali said. “I’m very excited to get the chance to compete against him a number of times a year.’’

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A few teammates in Toronto kept the congratulations on the lighter side, including more from Stroman:

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