The Tampa Bay Rays scored four runs in the first inning of Game 2 of the World Series and still lost, falling 5-4 to Milwaukee after Drew Rasmussen couldn’t make it through the fourth. Rasmussen lasted 3 2/3 innings, his shortest start since July 9, and gave up three runs after allowing just three in his previous 21 playoff innings. The Brewers’ patient approach at the plate drove his pitch count up and forced the Rays bullpen into action early.
Defensive mistakes made things worse. Jonathan Aranda’s error on a foul pop and another misplayed grounder helped Milwaukee chip away, and Sal Frelick’s sixth-inning homer tied the game. Tampa Bay also ran into an out at the plate, then saw Yandy Diaz strike out in the ninth with the tying run at third base.
Now the series shifts to Tampa Bay, where the Rays need a win to avoid digging a hole that no team wants to own in late October. Two franchises still looking for their first championship are separated by two games, and the next one comes with plenty of pressure. Suncoast baseball fans, this is what October is supposed to feel like.
What’s the Rays’ biggest fix heading into Game 3? Sound off in the comments.
