MLB18 min ago2 minute read

Rays Stick To Aggressive Running After Costly Game 1 Loss

Tampa Bay vows to keep running despite two costly baserunning mistakes in a 3-2 World Series loss to Milwaukee.

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Rays Stand By Aggressive Approach

The Tampa Bay Rays lost 3-2 to the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 of the World Series. Two baserunning mistakes stopped potential scoring drives, but the team says it will not slow down. This is the third time in franchise history the Rays have reached the World Series.

Left fielder Chandler Simpson stated that the team cannot run away from who they are just because they got stopped. The Rays finished second in the majors in steals during the regular season. They were 11 for 11 on playoff steal attempts before Friday night.

How The Miscues Happened

The first mistake came in the fifth inning. Victor Mesa Jr. singled off Brewers starter Jacob Misiorowski. With two outs and Yandy Diaz batting, Mesa tried to steal third base on an 0-2 count. Misiorowski threw a 103 mph fastball, and catcher William Contreras threw Mesa out to end the inning. Mesa acknowledged after the game that it was not the smartest move.

The second error occurred in the sixth inning against reliever Abner Uribe. Jonathan Aranda singled with one out. With a full count on Simpson, manager Kevin Cash sent Aranda to steal second base. Simpson struck out on a slider, and Contreras threw Aranda out for an inning ending double play. Cash took responsibility for the call, noting he had full trust in Simpson to put the ball in play.

Late Rally And Next Steps

Tampa Bay showed a spark in the ninth inning. Pinch runner Jorge Mateo and Simpson executed a double steal with one out to get into scoring position for Junior Caminero. However, Milwaukee's four pitchers and Contreras largely controlled the game on the bases.

The Rays will look to bounce back in Game 2 on Saturday. Simpson noted that the team needs to get on base more often and stay smart against Milwaukee's defense.

What it means for the next game

Tampa Bay Rays at Milwaukee Brewers (MLB, Sun, 25 Oct): Milwaukee Brewers win 51%, Tampa Bay Rays win 49%; projected score Milwaukee Brewers 4, Tampa Bay Rays 3. Our safest pick: Rays +3.5.

Milwaukee Brewers at Tampa Bay Rays (MLB, Tue, 27 Oct): Tampa Bay Rays win 49%, Milwaukee Brewers win 51%; projected score Tampa Bay Rays 4, Milwaukee Brewers 4. Our safest pick: Brewers +2.5.