Rays Roll Over Red Sox: Caminero and Baz Shine

Kutter Crawford, the Boston Red Sox’s pitcher, surrendered a crushing go-ahead homer to Junior Caminero, resulting in a 7-2 victory for the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday. Crawford’s 34th home run allowed is the highest in the majors, and his 16th loss is the worst in the big leagues. Red Sox’s manager Alex Cora acknowledged Crawford’s lack of command and consistency with his four-seamer, which led to an erratic performance.

Successful Day for the Rays

Caminero and Brandon Lowe contributed significantly to the Rays’ success, with three hits each. Junior Caminero also totaled three RBIs, helping the Rays improve their season record to 80-81. The team is now on track to avoid their first losing season since 2017, provided they secure a complete series sweep.

“I feel good about my game right now, and consistency is key for me,” Caminero stated through his translator.

Shane Baz: A Rising Star

Shane Baz, the Rays’ pitcher, gave an impressive performance with his third consecutive start win. He allowed only two runs and three hits over six innings, striking seven batters out. He also walked one batter, hit two others, and gave up a run on a wild pitch.

Rays’ manager Kevin Cash expressed his satisfaction with Baz’s performance, especially his ability to limit the damage and maintain efficiency, even after allowing a home run in the opening inning.

Crawford’s Struggles Continue

Crawford ended the game with six runs, five hits, and four walks allowed in just over four innings, culminating in a 4.36 ERA for the season. His 33 starts are tied for the most in the major leagues this year. “I didn’t have a good feel for the fastball and had to rely heavily on the cutter. It was just not a good outing overall,” Crawford admitted.

Notable Moments of the Game

Boston’s Tristan Casas hit his 13th home run in the first inning, giving the Red Sox an early lead. However, Caminero’s two-run homer in the third inning, following a walk by Yandy Díaz, gave the Rays a 2-1 lead. The Rays then extended their lead to 6-1 in the fifth inning, thanks to consecutive one-out singles from Díaz, Brandon Lowe, Caminero, and Jonathan Arando.

Red Sox’s center fielder, Jarren Duran, showcased his defensive skills by doubling up Josh Lowe at first base in the fourth inning on Jose Siri’s flyout.

Boston’s vibrant yellow City Connect uniforms, a tribute to Patriots Day weekend and the Boston Marathon, finished the season with an 8-7 record. The team has a 20-10 record in the yellow jerseys since the start of 2023.

Upcoming Match and Player Updates

Looking ahead, the Rays’ Ryan Pepiot (8-7, 3.64 ERA) is geared up to start the season finale. On the other hand, Quinn Priester, recently acquired from Pittsburgh, is likely to make his debut for the Red Sox.

Rays’ José Caballero, the American League’s stolen bases leader with 44, was out of the starting lineup due to a pitch injury sustained during Friday’s game. Fortunately, an X-ray confirmed no significant damage to his lower left leg.