The first half of the 2021 MLB season has come to an end with a memorable All-Star weekend. Let’s take a look back at how the Tampa Bay Rays stacked up against the rest of the MLB.
The first half of the season saw the Rays endure a rollercoaster of winning and losing streaks, with their longest winning streak of the season being held at 11 games. On the contrary, the longest losing streak of the season for Tampa was a seven-game stretch. These losses spanned from June 15th to the 22nd.
Troubles With Pitching
The Rays have had to overcome a lot of adversity, especially on the mound this season. Moreover, with star pitchers Tyler Glasnow and Chris Archer both out with injuries, the Rays have looked deeper into the rotation to fill their needs on the bump. Rich Hill has stepped up in a big way for the Rays; posting a 3.75 ERA and a 6-4 record through the first half of the season. Hill has been an unsung hero with the absence of Archer and Glasnow.
Standings
The Rays currently hold the second spot in the AL East with a record of 53-37. Furthermore, this is the fourth-best record in the AL which translates to the top wild-card spot in the upcoming playoff push. The Rays currently sit behind the Red Sox by a game and a half as they look to capitalize in the second half of the season.
Lowe’s Impact
Brandon Lowe started the season on a slower note but has recently heated up in the batter’s box. In the past month, Lowe has stepped up for the Rays as they lack a star hitter that opposing pitchers fear. This season, Lowe is batting .208 with 21 HR’s and 48 RBI’s.
MVP
The Rays’ first half has been defined by a roller-coaster schedule. Additionally, the MVP of the first half for the Rays has been Austin Meadows, who has posted 16 home runs, 58 RBI’s, and 23 doubles with a .240 average.
Vegas Odds
The Rays currently have +1200 odds to win the World Series. They look to continue their hot streak heading into the second half of the season with the playoffs in sight.