The hype leading up to the Rays’ season opener at Steinbrenner Field was intense, and the game did not disappoint. Down 2-0, the Rays staged a comeback to tie the game in the seventh inning, ultimately clinching the win with a walk-off home run by Kameron Misner in the ninth.
Misner, who was a late addition to the roster, made history by hitting a walk-off homer on opening day for his first career home run in the MLB.
Despite a sluggish start against Rockies’ starter Kyle Freeland, the Rays managed to rally in the seventh inning, scoring two runs off the Colorado bullpen. Brandon Lowe and Junior Caminero kick-started the rally with a single and a double, respectively, leading to runs scored by Jonathan Aranda and Jose Caballero.
The game was not without its errors, with the Rockies taking an early lead due to sloppy play by the Rays. Jordan Beck capitalized on a throwing error by Junior Caminero to score the first run, while Michael Toglia scored the second run after being hit by a pitch and advancing on a wild pitch.
Number of the day
82
The highest temperature recorded for a Rays home game in a non-COVID year.
Rays’ Tampa firsts
Anthem:BK Jackson, on saxophone
Ceremonial pitch:U.S. Rep Kathy Castor
Pitch: Rays’ Ryan Pepiot, a ball to Brenton Doyle
Hit: Yandy Diaz, infield single in fourth off Kyle Freeland
RBI: Jonathan Aranda, sac fly in seventh off Tyler Kinley
Home run: Kameron Misner, walk-off in ninth off Victor Vodnik
Error: Rays’ Junior Caminero, throwing, in third
Saturday: vs. Rockies
4:10, Steinbrenner Field, Tampa
TV/Radio: FanDuel Sports Sun; 95.3 FM/620 AM
Pitchers: Rays — RH Zack Littell (8-10, 3.63 in 2024); Rockies — RH Antonio Senzatela (0-1, 6.57)
Tickets/info: raysbaseball.com
On deck
Sunday: vs. Rockies, 1:40. Rays, RH Taj Bradley (8-11, 4.11); Rockies, RH Ryan Feltner (3-10, 4.49)
Monday:vs. Pirates, 7:05. Rays, RH Drew Rasmussen (0-2, 2.83); Pirates, RH Carmen Mlodzinski (5-5, 3.38)
Tuesday:vs. Pirates, 7:05. Rays, RH Shane Baz (4-3, 3.06); Pirates, RH Paul Skenes (0-0, 3.38 in 2025)
Wednesday:vs. Pirates, 1:10. Rays, RH Ryan Pepiot (0-0, 1.50); Pirates, RH Mitch Keller (11-12, 4.25 in 2024)
Thursday: Off
• • •
Conclusion
The Rays kicked off their season with a memorable win, showcasing the team’s resilience and determination. Fans can look forward to more exciting games ahead as the season unfolds.
FAQs
Q: Who hit the walk-off home run for the Rays on opening day?
A: Kameron Misner made history by hitting the walk-off homer, securing a victory for the Rays.
