Cobb Wins His First as Rays Beat Angels 4-1

June 7, 2011

A: Los Angeles Angels

Attendance: 38,833

W: Alex Cobb (1-0) 4.24 ERA

L: Dan Haren (5-4) 2.41 ERA

Summary:

Alex Cobb made his third big league start last night. It was his second career start against the Angels. His first didn’t go very well as the Angels came back from an early 5-0 lead off the right-hander. The rumor was that Cobb was tipping his pitches. Immediately after the game, Cobb was sent back down to Triple-A. Tonight, he seemed to figure out whatever he did wrong last time out against the Halos. He struggled in the first, giving up three hits but was aided by a double play. Other than that, he was lights out, only giving up a single run in the sixth inning.

Mark Trumbo led off the seventh with a double to center field. B.J. Upton misplayed the ball and Trumbo went to third. Cobb got the first out but then gave way to J.P. Howell. Howell struck out the next two hitters to end the threat. It was a key outing for Howell. Maddon keeps putting him in big spots and last night, he finally delivered.

Johnny Damon was the offensive hero of the game. He tripled and scored in the first and added two more doubles. Kotchman also added three hits and a run scored.

Kyle Farnsworth closed out the game with another perfect ninth for 12th save of the year.

Player of the Game: Alex Cobb