Former Ray Returns to Dominate

ST. PETERSBURG — Rays followers won’t have appreciated it, but it surely was a candy journey again to Tropicana Field for Zach Eflin. Less than two weeks after he was dealt to the Orioles, the right-handed starter returned and dominated his former teammates, pitching seven scoreless innings in a 4-1 Baltimore win.

Rays Struggle Against Orioles

The Rays (58-57) have misplaced seven of the eight video games they’ve performed towards the Orioles this season. The O’s (69-48) moved forward of the Yankees, who have been rained out Friday, in the American League East race.

Eflin’s Strong Performance

Eflin, who signed with the Rays earlier than the 2023 season, struck out seven whereas scattering 4 hits and one stroll. He generated 13 swings and misses, seven on his cutter.

Rays Offense Falters

Dylan Carlson’s dwelling run off Yennier Cano in the ninth inning was Tampa Bay’s solely offense of the night time. Jose Caballero’s seventh-inning double was the one extra-base hit off Eflin.

Struggles with Runners in Scoring Position

The Rays continued to wrestle with runners in scoring place, going 0-for-2 on Friday. With their current efficiency, they’re 6-for-55 over their previous seven video games in such conditions.

Littell’s Tough Outing

Rays starter Zack Littell couldn’t have been shocked that the Rays didn’t give him any offensive assist. It was the thirteenth of his previous 14 begins and 18th this season in which Tampa Bay scored two runs or fewer.

Game Details

Littell allowed three runs on eight hits over 5 innings. He walked one and struck out 5. He gave up a leadoff dwelling run to Colton Cowser in the primary inning after which discovered himself in a jam in the fifth.

Orioles Extend Lead

After Littell allowed a leadoff single to Ramon Urias, Christopher Morel whiffed on a bouncer to second base. Littell finally walked Gunnar Henderson to load the bases, and Ryan O’Hearn’s fly-ball single scored two runs, giving the Orioles a 3-0 lead.

Lovelady Surrenders Home Run

Richard Lovelady later surrendered a 426-foot dwelling run to Cedric Mullins in the sixth inning.

Conclusion

The Orioles got here out on high in a dominant efficiency by Zach Eflin towards his former staff, the Rays. Tampa Bay struggled offensively and defensively, ensuing in one other loss to Baltimore. The Rays will want to regroup and enhance their efficiency, particularly with runners in scoring place, to flip the tide in future matchups.

FAQs

Can the Rays bounce again from this loss?

While the Rays have confronted challenges towards the Orioles this season, they’ve proven resilience in the previous. With changes and a renewed focus, they’ve the potential to bounce again in upcoming video games.

What impression did Zach Eflin’s efficiency have on the sport?

Eflin’s stellar pitching efficiency was essential in securing the win for the Orioles. His dominance on the mound saved the Rays at bay and restricted their offensive alternatives all through the sport.