The Tampa Bay Rays had a tough start to their series against the Atlanta Braves, with pitcher Zack Littell struggling from the beginning. Littell was knocked out of the game after just two innings, giving up seven runs (six earned) on eight hits and one walk. The Braves went on to win the game 7-3.
The Rays have been struggling recently, losing six of their last eight games and being outscored 40-21 in that stretch. The Braves, on the other hand, tallied 12 hits in the game, including six extra-base hits. The first inning was particularly rough for Littell, as six of the Braves’ hits came in that inning.
Littell’s performance was his shortest of the season, with his previous shortest start being on April 10. His ERA rose from 3.63 to 4.24 after the game. Littell admitted that he didn’t execute well and went away from what was working for him in previous outings.
Despite Littell’s struggles, the Rays bullpen performed well, covering the final six innings of the game without allowing any runs. Manager Kevin Cash was encouraged by their performance and is not worried about a taxed bullpen for the next game.
Chris Sale was dominant for the Braves, going seven innings and allowing only two earned runs. The Rays managed to score one run in the first inning but were unable to capitalize on a scoring opportunity with runners in scoring position.
Overall, it was a tough game for the Rays, but Cash remains confident in his team’s ability to bounce back. The focus will be on regrouping and coming out strong in the next game.
