The Tampa Bay Rays dropped the first game of their series against the Yankees on Tuesday night in a 7-0 shutout. Andy Pettite went the distance with a dazzling performance, striking out 11 in nine innings during his best showing of the season. Joe Maddon's lineup managed just four hits all evening, as New York set the tone for big week at Yankee Stadium.
Meanwhile, James Shields was roughed up by the Yanks in five innings of work. Shields gave up all seven New York runs, with the big blow coming in the fourth inning when catcher Russell Martin ripped a grand slam to break it open. With Pettite dealing and the Yanks enjoying a six-run lead, this one had all doubt removed early on.
Tampa will try to get it back on Wednesday with Alex Cobb on the hill. Joe Girardi will counter with Ivan Nova.
Read more about the Rays at DRaysBay. For more in-depth coverage on the other side, visit Yankees blog Pinstripe Alley. Go to Baseball Nation for additional news and notes around the league.