Kirk Cousins ‘stunned’ by Penix Jr. selection by Falcons
Tanner Houck is aiming to break his four-start winless streak since his complete-game shutout on April 17 against Cleveland. In his upcoming start, Houck will try to build on Boston’s strong performance from Tuesday, where Nick Pivetta pitched into the sixth inning, four relievers allowed just one unearned run, and Ceddanne Rafaela hit a home run. Rafaela, known for his versatility in the infield and outfield, leads all MLB rookies with 23 RBIs. “He’s legit, honestly,” said manager Alex Cora.
Houck suffered a loss on Friday against Washington despite allowing only three runs over seven innings. He attributed the loss to a few key hits with runners in scoring position. Houck has struggled against Tampa Bay, with a 0-3 record and a 7.47 ERA in five appearances (three starts) against them.
Tampa Bay, after a 10-hit, 5-3 win in the series opener on Monday, was held to eight hits in a 12-inning game on Tuesday. Josh Lowe, Isaac Paredes, and Amed Rosario each had two hits, with Lowe and Randy Arozarena hitting home runs. Rosario had driven in three runs in the first game of the series. “I think the bats are starting to produce a little bit,” said Rays first baseman Yandy Diaz.
The Rays have lost four of their last six games following a five-game winning streak. After Aaron Civale made his first start at Fenway Park on Tuesday, the Rays will turn to 23-year-old right-hander Taj Bradley (0-1, 1.50 ERA) for his second start of the season. Bradley, who began the season on the injured list with a right pectoral strain, had a strong start on Friday with seven strikeouts over six innings of one-run ball but received no run support in a 2-0 loss to the Yankees. “I could not be more impressed with the way Taj threw the ball,” said Rays manager Kevin Cash.
Bradley had two rehab starts for Triple-A Durham, striking out 15 batters. Last season, during his rookie year, Bradley won both his starts against Boston, recording 14 strikeouts and a 4.50 ERA in 10 innings.
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