I admit, when this game started and the Rays got the first run, and Kikuchi looked uneven, I was ready to pre-write a winning game recap and feel very pleased with myself. But if there’s anything I’ve learned watching baseball: never trust an early read, and never pre-write a recap assuming a win.
Things started off nicely for the Rays. Margot singled to lead off the first, then Meadows singled, advancing Margot to third. Diaz grounded into a fielder’s choice to score Margot, and just like that, the Rays were on the board. Here it is, enjoy it, the first (and only) run the Rays scored.