Per MLB.com:
Fuld, S, LF
Zobrist, B, 2B
Joyce, M, RF
Lopez, F, 3B
Johnson, D, DH
Upton, B, CF
Kotchman, C, 1B
Jaso, J, C
Brignac, R, SS
The Rays will have Casey Kotchman in the lineup again today, with Dan Johnson sliding into the designated hitter role. Johnny Damon, the usual designated hitter, is still nursing a bruised finger and looks to return to duty sometime at the end of this week.
Meanwhile, Felipe Lopez, the unlikely cleanup hitter for the Rays recent hot streak, will be back at third base as Sean Rodriguez sits against the righty, Phil Humber.
Players to watch:
- Sam Fuld has been hot all season with the bat. Having never had much of a chance against major league pitchers, it is unclear what level of play Sam Fuld can maintain. He should cool off soon, but how much is uncertain.
- Ben Zobrist now co-leads the team in home runs (3, tied with Damon). He seems to be seeing the ball well of late (he hit a triple last night). Last year, he did not hit his 3rd home run until May 26th.
- Dan Johnson has been uncannily unlucky, having the second lowest batting average on balls in play (BABIP) in the majors right now. He has hit the ball with more authority this last week, so fans can expect to see that luck turning around soon.