Rays Stun Fans with Epic Comeback Amid Weather Delays
TAMPA — Saturday’s game took an unexpected turn with multiple weather delays, marking a historic moment for the Rays as it was their first time ever experiencing this at home. The fans were buzzing, not just about the rain, but also the electrifying way the Rays clinched victory after a nail-biting finish.
Nail-Biting Finish
With two outs in the ninth inning, Travis Jankowski, a new addition meant to bolster the outfield, stepped up and delivered. He hit a single that brought home Kameron Misner, who had earlier walked and stole second. Unfortunately for the Brewers, leftfielder Isaac Collins misplayed the ball, allowing the Rays to pull off a spectacular win.
Junior Caminero kicked off the inning with an infield single, but the pinch-runner Jose Caballero was caught trying to steal. This win brought the Rays to a two-game winning streak, improving their record to 18-21.
Defense Shines in the Ninth
The excitement wasn’t just at the plate; the Rays defense held strong as closer Pete Fairbanks rose to the occasion. After a tough ninth inning that saw errors from both Caminero and first baseman Jonathan Aranda, along with a walk that loaded the bases for the Brewers, Fairbanks struck out Sal Frelick and Caleb Durbin to seal the win.
After the game resumed in the fifth, neither team could make a significant move until Caminero’s costly error. The first historic weather delay lasted 27 minutes due to ominous storm threats, and then another 38-minute delay hit during the bottom of the fifth—both firsts for the Rays at home this season, as they play outdoors at Steinbrenner Field this year.
Game Highlights
The Brewers took the lead with a two-out homer from Jackson Chourio in the third inning against Tampa Bay’s starter, Taj Bradley. But the Rays weren’t about to make it easy. They answered back in the fourth with two runs, highlighted by a big double from Taylor Walls after Jonathan Aranda’s single and Misner’s walk, putting Tampa Bay ahead momentarily.
Unfortunately, Bradley struggled again, allowing a two-run, two-strike homer to Joey Ortiz, a no-name No. 9 hitter, in the fifth. Yet, he came back strong, needing only nine pitches to retire the Brewers in the sixth. Overall, he allowed two runs on four hits and struck out five batters, showcasing solid form with 59 strikes out of 84 pitches.
Upcoming Matches
Sunday: vs. Brewers
Time: 1:40 PM, Steinbrenner Field, Tampa
Pitchers: Rays — RH Drew Rasmussen (1-3, 3.09); Brewers — RH Chad Patrick (2-3, 3.08)
TV/Radio: FanDuel Sports Sun; 95.3-FM, 620-AM, 106.7-FM (Spanish)
More Info: raysbaseball.com
On Deck
Monday: OFF
Tuesday: at Blue Jays, 7:07 PM. Rays, RH Shane Baz (3-2, 4.93); Jays, RH Jose Berrios (1-1, 3.86)
Wednesday: at Blue Jays, 7:07 PM. Rays, RH Ryan Pepiot (2-4, 3.86); Jays, RH Chris Bassitt (3-2, 3.35)
Thursday: at Blue Jays, 3:07 PM. Rays, RH Zack Littell (2-5, 4.40); Jays, RH Kevin Gausman (3-3, 3.97)
Conclusion
The excitement of Saturday’s game was a true testament to the resilience of the Rays. With weather delays turning into thrilling gameplay, fans left Steinbrenner Field buzzing about what’s to come next. Don’t forget to catch the action as the season heats up!
FAQs
What caused the game delay on Saturday?
The game faced two weather delays due to storm threats and actual rain, marking a historic moment for the Rays.
Who was the standout player in Saturday’s game?
Travis Jankowski made a significant impact with his game-winning hit in the ninth inning.
When is the next game for the Rays?
The Rays will face the Brewers again on Sunday at 1:40 PM at Steinbrenner Field.
Where can I watch the game?
You can catch the game on FanDuel Sports Sun, or via radio on 95.3-FM, 620-AM, and 106.7-FM (Spanish).
