The Rays may have lost the game but there was still a lot of good thing s that happened Monday night.  First, the Rays still looked energized and did continue to have good at bats.  The Rays offense banged out 8 hits and squeezed 2 BB out of the probable AL Cy Young winner, not bad at all!  Second, Willy Aybar made some good plays at short filling in for Bartlett.  I think a lot of people forget that he originally was a shortstop. Nice to see him be able to fill in and allow Longo to stay at 3^rd.  Third, the Red Legs and those that wear pinstripes also lost so nothing changes in the standings.  This same time last year the Rays were –DIG THIS – 24 1/2 games out of first!!!  We are now 3 games UP!!  WOW – what a turnaround!

Matt Garza had a bit of trouble with his location throughout the game.  He allowed 7 hits, 4 ER, 2 HR, 2 BB while accumulating 4 K’s.  Even though Garza did not have his best stuff he did leave the game with the Rays still in good position to win.  That is an acceptable outing – no one pitcher is going to have their best stuff every outing.  When they don’t their objective turns to limiting the damage and keeping their team in the game — Garza did just that.  He did it by keeping his composure on the bump!   

The offense did bang out 8 hits.  Unfortunately Cliff Lee answered back by getting the key outs when he needed them.  Now, Cliff Lee is probably going to win the AL Cy Young award.  That being said I think the Rays did a good job against him last night.  I don’t feel so bad about this offensive effort because I still saw the intensity and energy out there. 

Tonight the Rays come back to take the game and tomorrow take the series!  Go Rays!!