What’s Important Now: An Even Split

Spring Game 6: Tigers 8, Rays 1

The Rays dropped the A-game in their split squad games yesterday, getting blasted by the Tigers 8 to 1. David Price was a little shaky, allowing 3 hits but no runs in his two innings. The scoring for the Tigers began off of Cesar Ramos, who allowed a three run homer to Delmon Young in his inning. Jeremy Hellickson, who has been historically bad out of the bullpen, struggled in this one, allowing 4 hits and 3 runs in 2 innings. JP Howell allowed the final 2 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks.

On offense, Reid Brignac and Jeff Keppinger were the only regulars to get hits. Brignac went 1 for 3 from the leadoff spot and Keppinger went 1 for 3 with a double and a run.

Spring Game 7: Rays 1, Twins 0

The Rays redeemed themselves a bit in the B-game, picking up a win in Fort Myers. Desmond Jennings was the big name in this one, and he did well. Jennings was 2 for 3 from his leadoff spot. Elliot Johnson was 1 for 2 from the second spot. Carlos Pena played in his second spring game, once again failing to get a hit in 2 at bats.

Chris Archer started this game for the Rays, getting two innings of one hit ball. Jake McGee followed Archer, allowing only a walk in his inning. Matt Bush continues to have success, allowing three hits and a walk but no runs in his 1.2 innings.

Spring Game 8: Orioles at Rays

Time: 1:05

Pitchers: Rays- Alex Cobb, Alex Torres, Jhonny Nunez, Ryan Reid

Orioles – Jake Arrieta, Brad Bergensen

Since a bunch of Major League guys got appearances yesterday you will not see any real Major Leaguers on the mound today. Alex Cobb and Alex Torres both have outside shots of making the Rays, but both will probably end up in Durham. It will still be interesting to see how they do today as the Rays look for their third win of the spring.

Rays News and Notes

• Marc Topkin and Joe Smith of theTampa Bay Times give us an injury update. The list appears to be getting smaller, with guys like Sam Fuld, Brandon Gomes, Matt Moore, and Kyle Farnsworth all getting ready to go.
• Topkin writes about David Price’s new injury, as he hurt himself toweling off. Obviously, Joe Maddon has some clever things to say.
• Alan Dell of the Bradenton Herald looks at Jose Molina, who comes into Rays camp feeling great. Molina will get the bulk of the starts for the Rays this season behind the plate, barring a trade.
• TheSarasota Herald-Tribune looks at how the Rays fit in down in Port Charlotte. Many Rays say Port Charlotte is a change of pace, being a retirement community and a smaller town.