Evan Longoria, Willy Aybar and Dioner Navarro hit back-to-back-to-back jacks in the 2nd inning off starter Joe Saunders to propel the Rays to victory. Longoria had an outstanding day at the dish going 3 for 4 with 2 HR, 2B, BB, 4 runs scored and 3 RBI in his homecoming to SoCal. Navarro also had a monster day going 4 for 5 with a HR, 2 2B, 3 runs scored and 4 RBI. Carl Crawford proved to everyone his knee is not an issue by swiping 2 bags – nice to see him being aggressive out there!

Edwin Jackson pitched well after a few early inning hiccups. He allowed 10 H, 4 ER BB, 2 K and 1 HR (Hunter) in 7 innings pitched. He earned the victory to bring his overall record to 4-5, 4.06.

This was a key victory for the Rays after a day of ineptitude in the series finale in Texas. This victory shows that even through tough times they can come together as a TEAM and WIN! And they can WIN against the best. This victory will carry them a long way confidence wise.

Tonight James Shields (4-4, 3.64) will face Jared Weaver (5-6, 4.79) in the middle game of this 3 game set. The key to this victory will be if Shields can keep his composure if he should encounter any difficulties. These young Rays pitchers have been a bit exposed emotionally this season and they’ll need to keep a better hold of themselves on the mound.

This is another historic day in Rays’ history as the Rays have never gone back-to-back-to-back! Their solid play this season makes me anxious to see what other historic moments this season has to offer!