TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The Tampa Bay Rays continued their strong start to the 2025 season with a decisive 7-0 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 1, 2025. This win marked the Rays' third consecutive victory and secured their second series win, setting the stage for an exciting finale against the Pirates the following day.
Jake Mangum was the star of the night, collecting three hits, driving in two runs, and scoring twice. The young outfielder was riding high after an impressive performance the night before, where he went 4-for-4 with two stolen bases in his second major league game. Mangum's contributions were pivotal, especially in the first inning, where he hit a two-run double to give the Rays an early lead.
Brandon Lowe also shined at the plate, homering and finishing the game with three hits and three RBIs. His two-run blast in the fourth inning extended the Rays' lead to 6-0, showcasing the team's offensive prowess. With the win, the Rays improved to a 5-1 record, demonstrating their potential as serious contenders this season.
On the mound, Shane Baz made his first start of the season and delivered a stellar performance. The right-hander struck out a career-high 10 batters in six innings, allowing just seven hits and issuing no walks. This outing showcased Baz's ability to dominate on the mound, as he struck out four of his last five batters, leaving the Pirates struggling to find their rhythm.
The Pirates, on the other hand, faced challenges throughout the game. Rookie pitcher Thomas Harrington, making his major league debut, had a rough outing, allowing six runs on seven hits in just four innings. Harrington struggled to find his footing early, as he walked four batters and struck out only two. His performance highlighted the difficulties the Pirates have faced this season, as they now sit at 1-5, marking their worst start since 2021.
Pittsburgh's offensive struggles were evident as they left seven runners on base throughout the game. Bryan Reynolds and Ke'Bryan Hayes each contributed two hits, but the team couldn't capitalize on their opportunities, grounding into double plays and failing to convert key chances into runs.
The pivotal moment of the game came in the first inning when the Rays jumped out to a 3-0 lead. After Yandy Diaz led off with a single and Lowe walked, Mangum's double brought both runners home. Kameron Misner then singled, allowing Mangum to score on an error by Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz.
In the third inning, Mangum continued to shine, reaching on an infield single, stealing second, and advancing to third on a wild pitch. Misner's sacrifice fly added another run, extending the Rays' lead to 4-0. The fourth inning saw Lowe's home run, which further solidified Tampa Bay's commanding position.
The Rays' bullpen was equally impressive, with Mason Englert pitching two innings before Mason Montgomery closed out the game with a perfect ninth, striking out the side and touching 102 mph on the radar gun. The combined efforts of Baz, Englert, and Montgomery resulted in a remarkable 15 strikeouts and no walks for the Rays' pitching staff.
As the teams prepare for their series finale, the matchup promises to be an exciting one. The Rays will send Ryan Pepiot to the mound, who boasts a 1.50 ERA, to face Pirates star Paul Skenes, who has a 3.38 ERA. With temperatures expected to reach 91 degrees at game time, fans can anticipate a thrilling conclusion to the series.
The Pirates have faced a tough start to the season, having lost their last four games, including a series against the Miami Marlins prior to facing the Rays. Their only win came against the Marlins on March 28, and they will need to regroup quickly to avoid falling further behind in the standings.
With the Rays riding high on momentum and the Pirates looking to turn things around, the final game of the series is set to be a must-watch for baseball fans. Will the Rays continue their winning streak, or can the Pirates find a way to break out of their slump? Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting matchup.
