September 1, 05:10 MLB Tampa Bay San Diego Overseas Baseball Analysis Sports Analysis
-
Editing and deleting posts requires login
The collapse of the pitching staff led to a blowout loss for the Tampa Bay Rays, and Shane Baz (1 win, 2 losses, 3.48 ERA) will be seeking his second victory of the season. After earning a win with an impressive performance of 7.2 innings, 3 hits, and no runs allowed in an away game against Oakland on the 21st, Baz had missed a start due to a lack of form. Given that he has been pitching quite well at home recently, there is plenty of reason to expect another solid outing in this game. The Rays' lineup managed to score 5 runs, including a 2-run homer from Yandy Díaz against Perez and Estrada in the previous game, suggesting they have found their rhythm at home. However, the struggles of the middle order are a concern. The bullpen, which allowed 5 runs over 6.2 innings, will need to rely on the winning team.
After breaking their losing streak with an explosive offensive performance, the San Diego Padres will see Randy Vásquez (4 wins, 6 losses, 4.52 ERA) seeking his fifth victory of the season. Vásquez earned a win with a solid performance of 6 innings and allowing only 2 runs against St. Louis on the 27th, proving that he is not a minor league pitcher. It's encouraging that he performed well on the road, but overcoming his weak spot of a 6.39 ERA in day games will be crucial. In the previous game, the Padres scored 13 runs, including 3 home runs, by targeting Taz Bradley from the start, showing they successfully overcame their midweek struggles. The firepower of the middle lineup when they are hot is indescribable. The bullpen had a strong outing by allowing just 1 run over 4 innings, and it raises the question of whether Tanner Scott should pitch in games like this.
Bradley's collapse from the beginning was a complete miscalculation for Tampa Bay. However, Baz's pitching should be different from Bradley's. Yet, it's reasonable to expect that Vásquez, who has revived on the road, will also perform well. This game is likely to feature a battle of bullpens in the latter half, and recently, San Diego has not been outperformed by any team in bullpen duels, which could determine the outcome. With superior pitching, the San Diego Padres are closer to victory.
Projected score: 4-3 in favor of San Diego
Handicap: San Diego victory
Over/Under: Under