Margot, Beeks lead Rays narrow victory

by Gary Shelton on September 1, 2022

in general

Thursday, 4 a.m.

Two men. Two moments. Two reasons for a 2-1 victory by the Tampa Bay Rays.

Oh, there were other players, and other performances, that mattered. But if you are looking for the major reasons the Rays survived a 10-inning game against the Miami Marlins, it comes down to two.

First, consider Manny Margot, who was having a perfectly forgettable night until the 10th. He was 0-4 and had popped up a bunt attempt in the eighth. Then, after the Marlins intentionally walked Yandy Diaz to get to Margot, he ended a seven-pitch at-bat with a bloop single to right to force in the winning run. On second thought, maybe the Marlins should have walked him, too.

Second, consider Jalen Beeks, who stood on the mound with one out and the tying run on third in the bottom of the inning. A fly ball would tie the game. But Beeks struck out Peyton Burdick, then got a ground ball out to get out of the inning for his second save.


Content beyond this point is for members only.

Already a member? To view the rest of this column, sign in using the handy "Sign In" button located in the upper right corner of the GarySheltonSports.com blog (it's at the far right of the navigation bar under Gary's photo)!

Not a member? It's easy to subscribe so you can view the rest of this column and all other premium content on GarySheltonSports.com.

"Our pitching was just outstanding again," Rays' manager Kevin Cash said. "(Drew Rasmussen) set the tone. It was crummy that he gave up that home run and we weren’t able to get more for him to  get a win. He deserved it."

The Rays had 10 hits on the night but were able to squeeze across only two runs. The first came when Harold Ramirez doubled home Yandy Diaz.

Both Ramirez and Diaz had three hits, and Randy Arozarena had two.

Rasmussen went six innings and allowed just four hits and one run but left with a no-decision.

The Rays are off today, then play the Yankees Friday night at Tropicana Field at 7:10 p.m. Neither team has announced its starting pitcher

Previous post:

Next post: