This game can be summed up in one short sentence: Wade Davis stunk. While he did get his work in (83 total pitches), he only lasted 3.1 innings, walked two and struck out none, and allowed a total of nine hits and eight earned runs. Ouch. He said after the game to Marc Topkin that he felt “uncomfortable” on the mound, so it’s likely that this is just a one game, spring training glitch as he’s still getting himself tuned up for the season. Hopefully he’s on his game for his next start.
Besides that, the game today was pretty dull. Since the Rays started so many of their projected Triple-A players, there weren’t a whole lot of worthwhile at bats to follow. Reid Brignac had a good day at the plate, getting two hits, and Casey Kotchman went 1-3 with his first homerun of the spring. Although the Rays did have a smattering of hits, Kotchman’s homerun was the only time the Rays scored in the game.
Quick Notes:
- John Jaso left the game early after getting hit with a foul ball in…umm, well, you know. Marc Topkin is reporting that he suffered a contusion and is day-to-day.
- Cesar Cabral, Rob Delaney, and R.J. Swindle all pitched well in their relief appearances, each pitching scoreless innings while striking out a batter. Cory Wade let up two hits over an inning and two thirds, but one of them was a solo homerun. Personally, I’m holding out hope that Juan Cruz gets named to the Opening Day bullpen, as he’s impressed me more than Wade, Delaney, or Ekstrom. With him, though, it really all comes down to his health and if the Rays think he still needs a bit of time in the minors to build up a bit more arm strength.
- All in all, not much to see here. Tomorrow’s game should be a bit more interesting, as the Rays plan to start more of their regulars.
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