Rays Frustrated in Loss to Rockies
TAMPA — So much for the magic of Steinbrenner Field. A day after a furious comeback and walk-off homer in the first major-league game in the city of Tampa, the Rays dropped an infuriating 2-1 game to the Rockies early Saturday evening.
Missed Opportunities
The Rays had two runners thrown out at the plate, hit into two double plays, and left 12 runners on base. They also watched the Rockies make highlight-reel defensive plays all around the field. It was the first time in franchise history the Rays had at least 17 baserunners and failed to score more than one run.
Struggles With Key Hits
For the second day in a row, the Rays went into the bottom of the seventh trailing 2-0. Taylor Walls drove in the only run of the day for Tampa Bay with a two-out single in the eighth, but Yandy Diaz bounced out to first base.
Tough Breaks
The Rays hit shots all over the field, but couldn’t capitalize. They left eight runners on base over multiple innings and were 2-for-10 with runners in scoring position.
Number of the day
1.50: Two games into the season, that’s the ERA for Rays starters. Both Ryan Pepiot and Zack Littell threw six innings while giving up one earned run.
Upcoming Games
Sunday: vs. Rockies 1:40, Steinbrenner Field, Tampa
TV/radio: FanDuel Sports Sun; 95.3 FM, 620 AM
Pitchers: Rays — RH Taj Bradley (8-11, 4.11 in 2024); Rockies — RH Ryan Feltner (3-10, 4.49 in 2024)
Info: raysbaseball.com
On deck
Monday:vs. Pirates, 7:05. Rays, RH Drew Rasmussen (0-2, 2.83 in 2024); Pirates, RH Carmen Mlodzinski (5-5, 3.38 in 2024)
Tuesday:vs. Pirates, 7:05. Rays, RH Shane Baz (4-3, 3.06 in 2024); Pirates, RH Paul Skenes (0-0, 3.38)
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
Friday: at Rangers, 8:05. Rays, RH Zack Littell (0-1, 1.50); Rangers TBD.
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Conclusion
Despite a strong offensive showing, the Rays were unable to convert their opportunities into runs, resulting in a frustrating loss to the Rockies.
FAQs
Q: Why did the Rays struggle offensively in the game?
A: The Rays had multiple runners left on base and couldn’t come up with key hits when needed.
Q: Who were the standout players in the game?
A: Taylor Walls drove in the only run for the Rays, and Rockies players Brenton Doyle and Ezequiel Tovar made impressive defensive plays.
