Matt Garza dominated the Blue Jay hitters to earn his first CG shutout! He allowed only 5 hits, 1 BB and earned 5 K’s in his 9 innings of work. I cannot say enough about Garza’s performance. He was professional, poised and looked mature far beyond his years out there. Garza had all his pitches working and his location was spot on. Have to give a shout out to Dioner Navarro who called this game and did a great job!
All Garza needed was a solo blast by Eric Hinske in the 3rd off Halladay. The offense was not outstanding tonight BUT I will give that out to Halladay’s pitching tonight. He was no slouch on the mound!
There was a specific period of the game offensively that really stood out to me as an improvement on the recent struggles of the offense. In the 8th inning with 2 out BJ Upton worked Halladay for a full count walk. Carl Crawford then followed with a great at bat and lined a single down the left field line. Evan Longoria followed him with another great at bat and blistered a triple to the gap scoring Upton and Crawford and giving Garza some breathing room. These at bats were significant in my mind from 3 guys who have been struggling and need to turn it around to anchor this offense.
Longo was also flashing some serious leather between the lines. On one hit the ball actually bounced high off the bag he grabbed it and fired a strike to first to get Rios who can motor. If this guy does not win the ROY there is something wrong with the entire process. One of the most impressive things about Longo in my opinion is that he never seems rattled. He carries himself in a very calm and professional manner regardless of what has gone on. His struggles as of late at the dish have not affected his defensive play at all. Great on you Longo!
Congratulations Matt! Great game Rays! Let’s take the series victory today!
