Rays vs Orioles Preview: Stormy Rays Hit Toward Win

You just watched a 13-inning marathon on Monday night. The Rays and Orioles went back and forth forever, but Baltimore's Cowser launched a 425-foot bomb in the bottom of the 13th to steal a 9-7 win. Ouch. Tampa Bay's record sits at 34-17, still solid, but losing on the road stings. Now Griffin Jax takes the mound for the Rays tonight. His numbers look rough—a 13.85 ERA with serious control issues. Baltimore's Shane Baz counters with a 7.06 ERA. Both pitchers are struggling. This game could get messy fast if either team finds their hitting stroke.

Here's the tough reality: these pitching staffs are both banged up. The Rays are missing Ryan Pepiot, and Jonny DeLuca just went down with a hamstring strain. Jake Fraley needs surgery and won't be back until July. Baltimore has Zach Eflin out for Tommy John surgery and Dean Kremer slowly working his way back. Ryan Helsley, their closer, is still rehabbing an elbow. When both teams lack depth in relief, games turn into slugfests. The Orioles are 24-30 and desperate for wins. The Rays have momentum but injuries piling up. Tonight could be wide open.

Look at Monday's wild game. Cowser delivered the dagger with that massive 425-footer. Victor Mesa Jr. went deep too. The Rays' Aranda showed up in the clutch. You're watching two hungry offenses that can strike fast. Tampa Bay is 34-17 because they score runs. Baltimore is fighting to stay relevant at 24-30. Tonight's winner depends on who gets runners in scoring position and actually drives them home. Pitching is shaky on both sides, so expect bats to decide this one.