The Tampa Bay Rays offense looked a bit healthier Saturday in defeating the Kansas City Royals 5-3.  The offensive heroes for the game were Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena.  CC hit his second triple of the game in the 8^th inning scoring 2 runs to break a 2-2 tie.  Pena added a solos blast, his 2^nd in as many games, in the 9^th to give the Rays some breathing room.  CC had a good night at the dish going 2 for 4 with 2 triples and 2 RBIs.  Pena was 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored, 1 RBI, 1 BB, 1 HR and, of course, what would the night be without that token K.

The pitching was average at best.  Scott Kazmir was the starter.  Kaz went 5 innings due to a rain delay in the middle of the 5^th.  Kazmir’s line wasn’t very impressive.  Kaz scattered 7 hits and allowed 2 ER while striking out 5.  Kaz went deep into counts again with many of the Royal hitters and had already reached the 91 pitch count mark by the end of the 5^th.  The bullpen did a nice job holding the Royals at bay.  A combined 4 relievers went 4 innings allowing 3 hits, 1 ER, 2 BB and 2 K’s.  Troy Percival entered in the 9^th inning and immediately gave up a triple and run scoring single.  Has he forgotten that the closer is supposed to close the door not give up hits and runs??!!  Not sure what the intentions of the Rays are BUT if this team makes the postseason Perci is the last guy I want to see on the mound with a 1 run lead in the 9^th inning of game 7!!!! 

All in all a better performance by the offense and Pena’s bat seems to be heating up.  This victory gives the Rays a 2 game advantage over the Red Legs and a 3 game advantage of those that wear pinstripes.  This weekend is a baseball lovers dream!  Is it on yet……

Go Rays!!