Rays at Blue Jays
The Blue Jays got some help from Rays third baseman Evan Longoria, whose three errors helped push three unearned runs across the plate in a 7-3 win to open this three-game American League East series. It was just Toronto’s third win over Tampa Bay in their past 10 meetings, and dealt the Rays their fifth loss in the past six outings.
Adam Lind swung the big bat for the Blue Jays, going 3-for-3 with three RBIs, including a two-run shot for his first home run of the season. Jose Bautista and Brett Lawrie also went deep in the win. Carlos Pena, known more for his power, picked up three hits – two on surprise bunts down the third base line.
TV: 7:07 p.m. ET, RSN (Toronto) / Sun Sports (Tampa Bay)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Rays LH David Price (1-1, 4.82 ERA) vs. Blue Jays RH Brandon Morrow (0-0, 2.57 ERA)
Price has been dominant against Toronto during his career, with a 9-2 record and 2.06 ERA in 12 starts. The southpaw struggled in his most recent start, lasting just three innings against the Red Sox. Price allowed three runs on four hits and walked three in a 12-2 blowout loss.
Morrow is winless despite two solid starts to begin the year. He’s gone seven innings in both outings, giving up four runs on six hits – two home runs – in his most recent trip to the bump, a 7-5 loss to Baltimore in which the bullpen fell apart. Morrow is 4-3 with a career 2.26 ERA against Tampa Bay.
WALK-OFFS:
1. Longoria’s three errors Tuesday tied the Rays’ team record. The two-time Gold Glove winner has made just 14 errors in each of the past two seasons.
2. The Rays were just 2-for-10 with runners in scoring position and stranded six men on base Tuesday.
3. Bautista hit seven home runs off the Rays last season – tied with Minnesota for the most off one opponent.