Rays RISP problems continue in second game of 2025 season

Brandon Lowe's face says it all. Yikes! One of the most frustrating games Rays fans have ever witnessed because the club didn't play poorly at all, but they just couldn't find a way to score runs. It was something that haunted this team all of last season and it's already crept its way into 2025, but how do they combat this struggle?

How does a team collect 12 hits and lose 2-1? The Rays found a way to execute that result today. Rockies starting pitcher Antonio Senzatela had no answer for Rays hitters in his 4 1/3 innings of work. The 30-year old right-hander allowed nine baserunners and struck out nobody. However, he also gave up zero runs in his short outing.

It was very frustrating to watch from the Rays point of view as they witnessed two runners get thrown out at home plate. Despite the negative aspect of being held scoreless for so long, there were some bright spots from this contest. Five Tampa sluggers recorded at least two hits. These performances were highlighted by Junior Caminero's 3-for-5 game, Jonathan Aranda's two doubles, and Christopher Morel reaching base four times. Scoring runs is the name of the game though, so Kevin Cash and company have to find ways to get it done.

On the other hand, Zack Littell had a masterful outing for the Rays. He was locked in from the jump as the former relief pitcher tossed six innings, giving up one run on four hits. The low velocity hurler found a way to strikeout seven Rockies, as he mixed up his pitches effortlessly.

If the Rays continue pitching at this level throughout the season, they will be just fine. Hitting will come and go, but a game like this has got to end in a victory. It's still only March and this club is also learning the ropes of their new facility, so there's no reason to overreact. Although, we completely understand the irritation at the moment.

In other news, the Rays had to place everyday right fielder Josh Lowe on the 10-day IL ahead of today's game. We're hoping this is a temporary stint and he'll be back contributing to the team in no time. On the bright side, long-time minor league outfielder Jake Mangum has now been called up to the big leagues for the first time in his career.

It's a well-deserved promotion as the Mississippi State alumni slashed .429/.467/.750 with two home runs in his 15 games this spring. This is exciting news for the young outfielder and the Rays are equally pumped to watch him play at the highest level.