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Zach Eflin’s Return: Rays Aim to Sweep Marlins
The Tampa Bay Rays are poised to complete a sweep of their two-game series against the Miami Marlins, with right-hander Zach Eflin set to come off the injured list and take the mound. After a brief hiatus due to lower back inflammation, Eflin’s return is highly anticipated and could be pivotal in the Rays’ pursuit of dominance.
Zach Eflin’s Return from IL
Eflin’s Comeback Details
Zach Eflin, who has been out since May 18 due to lower back inflammation, will make his return in the series finale against the Marlins. Eflin holds a 3-4 record with a 4.12 ERA this season. Historically, his performances against the Marlins have been challenging, reflected in his 5-8 record and a 4.91 ERA over 18 appearances (17 starts).
Pitch Count Strategy
Rays manager Kevin Cash has confirmed that Eflin will be on a pitch count. “We will probably start at the three-inning mark and see how efficient (Eflin) is,” Cash stated, indicating a careful and strategic approach to Eflin’s reintegration into the rotation.
Rays’ Offensive Performance
Brandon Lowe’s Improvement
Second baseman Brandon Lowe had a tough start to the season, hitting just .170 with one homer and eight RBIs through the end of May. However, his recent performance, including a three-run homer and a two-run double in the Rays’ 9-5 victory on Tuesday, shows signs of improvement.
Randy Arozarena’s On-Base Streak
Randy Arozarena has been struggling with a .166 batting average, but his recent ability to reach base five times in Tuesday’s game (via one hit, two walks, and two hit-by-pitches) has boosted his on-base percentage to .278 and his OPS to .590. This development is crucial for the Rays’ offensive strategy.
Isaac Paredes Leading the Charge
Isaac Paredes, the third baseman, was the only player in the series opener with an OPS over .800, currently standing at .869. His consistent performance remains a key asset for the Rays.
Marlins’ Challenges
Braxton Garrett on the Mound
The Marlins will start left-hander Braxton Garrett, who has a 2-0 record and a 4.56 ERA this season. Garrett has never faced the Rays but has better career numbers on the road (10-7, 3.54 ERA) than at home (6-10, 4.27). The Marlins are 4-0 in games started by Garrett this year, highlighting his reliability.
Team’s Fighting Spirit
Despite holding the worst record in the National League at 21-40, the Marlins displayed resilience in Tuesday’s game. They rallied from a 9-3 deficit, scoring in the seventh and eighth innings and loading the bases in the ninth. Manager Skip Schumaker praised the team’s effort, noting that there is “never any quit in our dugout.”
Bryan De La Cruz’s Power Surge
Bryan De La Cruz hit his team-leading 10th home run of the season on Tuesday, and he’s on pace to surpass his career-high of 19 homers set last year. His power hitting is a significant component of the Marlins’ offensive strategy.
Potential Catcher Swap
Christian Bethancourt, recently activated from the bereavement list, might start as catcher on Wednesday, providing an additional strategic option for the Marlins.
