The Tampa Bay Rays were trying to be the first team in Roy Halladay’s career to beat him 4 times in a single season.  Well, Halladay had a different idea.  He pitched with a vengeance Tuesday night at The Trop.  It was clear form pitch #1 that he had his best stuff working and James Shields did not.  Shieldsy struggled through 6 2/3 innings allowing 4 ER on 9 hits and 2 free passes.  Shields showed his grit and competitive nature by keeping the Rays within striking distance but it wasn’t meant to be.

The Rays offense showed the occasional spark but Halladay and his compadres in the bullpen silenced them quickly.  The only mark against Doc was a 2-run single by Eric Hinske.  Hinske was the only Ray with multiple hits in the game.  The Rays were also kind enough to give Doc some easy outs by striking out 11 times.  BJ Upton was kind enough to chip in with 3 of those.   

I have to admit I was a bit surprised with the lack of energy the team showed during this game.  They looked lethargic and tired.  Having had a day off Monday I would have expected them to have recovered form the difficult trip to Chicago.  Maybe it’s the ridiculous lack of fan support.  To see 2 of the premier pitchers in the AL only 13,400 fans showed up at The Trop.  Unbelievable! 

People!  Get off your couch and get to The Trop!  See you there