O-Rays Offense Stymied By Watkins
May 17, 2003 - Southern League (SL1)
Orlando Rays News Release
ORLANDO - Mobile starting pitcher kept the Orlando bats in check all night long, limiting the Rays to three hits over eight innings as the BayBears dropped the Rays 6-1 in front of 3,441 fans at Cracker Jack Stadium Saturday.
Watkins (2-3) kept the Orlando hitters off balance all night, allowing only a solo home run to Pete LaForest in the 2nd inning. Things didn't go as smoothly for Orlando starter Jose Veras (0-4), who struggled with his control in the 3rd inning, walking three and giving up four runs. That was all the offense Watkins would need, as he cruised through 8.0 innings, allowing three hits and one earned run on the night while striking out nine. Veras allowed five runs - all earned - on three hits over 5.0 IP. He also walked five and struck out five in the loss.
Orlando and the BayBears will conclude their four-game series tomorrow at 1:35 p.m., with Rays LHP Jon Switzer (3-3, 5.66) starting for the Rays, while Mobile counters with RHP Brad Baker (0-4, 6.67).
Rays Notes
- Orlando announced three roster moves prior to the start of the game Saturday: LHP John Rocker and INF Antonio Perez were assigned to Orlando after spending time with the parent club Tampa Bay Devil Rays. To make room on the roster LHP Brian O'Connor was released by the organization. Rocker pitched one scoreless inning of relief in Saturday's game, while Perez did not play.
- Tomorrow's game will start at 1:35 p.m. and free batting helmets will be given to the first 1,000 children (ages 14 and under) through the gates.
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