The Tampa Bay Rays are on a roll, winning nine of their last 13 games and outscoring opponents 59-41. One of the key factors in their recent success has been the performance of their hitters, particularly Yandy Diaz.
Diaz is currently the only Tampa Bay hitter ranking in the top 50 for average exit velocity, sitting at 17th with an impressive 92.5 mph. He also ranks third in the majors with 141 hard-hit balls. Diaz’s consistency at the plate has been a driving force for the Rays, but he is not the only one contributing to the team’s offensive output.
Brandon Lowe has been a standout performer, hitting six home runs and driving in 16 RBIs in the last 19 games since June 4. Randy Arozarena has also been on a tear, with a season-high 16-game streak of reaching base safely, including seven extra-base hits. Isaac Paredes and Richie Palacios have also been instrumental in the Rays’ recent success, with Paredes reaching base safely in 14 straight games and Palacios batting .400 with two doubles, four RBIs, three walks, and three steals in his last eight games.
The Rays’ manager, Kevin Cash, has been impressed with the team’s collective effort and ability to put pressure on opposing pitchers. Despite falling short in Wednesday’s game against the Kansas City Royals, Cash commended the team’s at-bats and their ability to put runners on base.
Looking ahead to Thursday’s game against the Royals, right-handers Zach Eflin of the Rays and Alec Marsh of the Royals will take the mound. Eflin, with a 4-5 record and a 3.92 ERA, will look to build on his recent success, while Marsh aims to bounce back from a tough outing against the Rays in 2023.
With the Rays firing on all cylinders and their hitters finding their groove, they are poised to continue their winning ways and secure their fifth straight series win. Fans can expect an exciting matchup as the Rays look to extend their hot streak and solidify their position in the American League standings.
