The Tampa Rays Are Off To Their Best Start In Franchise History
The Tampa Bay Rays have kicked off their 25th anniversary season in record breaking fashion. After a 7-2 victory over the Washington Nationals today, they are now 6-0. As the last remaining undefeated team in MLB, the Rays are off to their best start in franchise history.
The Numbers
Let’s take a look at the success factors that have contributed to his hot start. In the first five games, the Rays have scored 44 runs. That’s an average of 7.3 runs per game. Their points for / points against equates to 37 vs. 11. They’ve given up just 13 runs so far in the first week of the season. This includes an opening day shutout vs. the Detroit Tigers, followed by a two and one run game in that series sweep.
They have hit 13 home runs collectively. Four of them came last night (seven totals in two games vs. the Nationals). Furthermore, they are manufacturing runs the old fashion way. MLB statistics show, the Rays have the fourth highest batting average so far, at .284. This includes 43 RBIs.
As for pitching – the Rays are second in MLB in this category. They have posted an ERA of 2.00 in the first five games. Their pitching staff has combined for 51 strikeouts with on nine walks. Starting pitchers, Jeffrey Springs, Drew Rasmussen, and Zach Eflin are all 1-0. Shane McClanahan is now 2-0. Springs threw 12 strikeouts in his debut. Rasmussen also made a gold-glove behind the back fielding play during game one of the Nationals series. The team defense has been incredible with just three total errors.
Can It Continue?
The team now heads home to take on the Oakland A’s this weekend. The A’s are currently 2-3. All of the Rays position players are healthy. The injury report has four pitchers on the DL. Relief pitchers Colby White and Jamie Schultz are listed as day-to-day.
You're looking at the last undefeated team in @MLB#RaysUp
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) April 5, 2023
Finally, manager (and Tampa native) Kevin Cash has the team believing in themselves and having fun playing the game. The team has a lot of exciting components on tap for this season. As you noticed in the first game, they will be sporting their throwback “Devil Rays” uniforms on Friday nights. Thus, the Rays jumping out best start in franchise history, is a great way to begin their 25th anniversary season.
