Game 55: Kanas City Royals 0, Tampa Bay Rays 9

Adrian is on hiatus so I will be doing the post game. Tonight’s win for the Rays was huge as they go for the sweep tomorrow against the Royals. With the great pitching performance from Jeff Niemann and an offensive outburst, the Rays looked like the team of ‘08.

What Went Right:

Jeff Niemann made his case tonight to be the number-four starter in the rotation. Yes, we have no faith in Scott Kazmir at all, but who does these days? The Giraffe threw a complete game-two hitter with nine strikeouts.  Any time a starting pitcher can give the bullpen an off-day he deserves to be in this section.

Is there any way of getting Zorilla on the All-Star ballot? Benzo was his typical self tonight hitting an opposite field grand slam. Maybe Zobrist will be the second base replacement instead of Brignac.

B.J. Upton finally showed signs of getting his groove back. Bossman was 2-4 with two RBI and a stolen base. If he is able to do this when Longo and Burrell come back from injury, this Rays lineup will be feared greatly.

 

What Went Wrong:
There wasn’t too much that was negative tonight. The only thing that we didn’t like was Carlos Peña leaving seven runners on base.

Also, Matt Joyce showed that he is human, going 0-4 with two strikeouts.

 

Whats Next:
The Rays have a chance to sweep—yes I said sweep—the Royals tomorrow. Tampa will send James Shields, RHP (4-4, 3.53) to face off with Gil Meche, RHP (2-5, 4.33). First pitch is at 4:08 p.m. EST.