The Tampa Bay Rays were unable to fend off the New York Yankees on May 24, allowing a walk-off two-run slam from star Aaron Judge for the only score of the game. The second series between the AL East rivals this season will remain split until Sept. 22 following a weather delay that suspended Game 2.
Despite the offense putting up zero runs on the scoreboard for the second time this season, Rays pitcher Drew Rasmussen kept them in it with a six strikeout performance across seven innings. Relief pitcher Kevin Kelly attempted to close out Rasmussen’s scoreless performance, but Kelly’s final pitch turned into Judge’s first RBI in 11 games, ending the slugger’s career-high scoring drought.
In a 2-0 loss, it was two base running mistakes from Tampa Bay that proved costly. Singles from Yandy Diaz and Jonathan Aranda would have scored shortstop Carson Williams in the third inning, had he not been picked off at first base prior.
With two outs in the eighth inning, Tampa Bay nearly scored from a sprint to home from pinch-runner Oliver Dunn, but Rays third baseman Junior Caminero was tagged at third while running from first before Dunn reached home plate.
“Just trying to do a little bit too much,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “There’s no reason to force anything getting to third base. You’re talking about an elite left fielder. The play’s in front of you. Ideally, just hold up and let’s score the run.”
Remaining 4.5 games ahead of New York in the division, the Rays will try to extend that lead against the Baltimore Orioles on May 25 at Camden Yards.