O-Rays Rally To Stop Smokies in 9th
Published on April 12, 2003 under Southern League (SL1)
Orlando Rays News Release
ORLANDO -The Orlando Rays just wanted to make things interesting, holding off until the ninth inning before rallying for a 3-2 win over the Tennessee Smokies in their final at-bat Saturday.
Leading off the bottom of the ninth for the Rays was pinch-hitter Gabby Martinez, who coaxed a walk out of Smokies losing pitcher Mike Lyons (0-1). Lyons then hit Amado German with a pitch then gave up a bunt single to Antonio Perez to load the bases with no outs. Felix Escalona singled to drive in Martinez with the tying run, and then outfielder Matt Diaz played the role of hero, driving in German with the winning run.
Doug Waechter gave the Rays six strong innings, holding the Smokies to two runs on three hits while striking out four. Waechter didn't allow a hit until the fourth inning.
The Rays managed to pound out ten hits but their inability to produce in the clutch nearly led to a second straight loss. Orlando stranded 12 runners, including letting the Smokies escape in the seventh inning when the O-Rays had runners on second and third with no outs but failed to score.
Frank Moore led the O-Rays attack, going 3-4 with two singles, a double and an RBI.
Mark Malaska earned the win for the O-rays tonight, and improves to 1-1 on the year.
Notes: The Rays played before a crowd of 3,296, marking the second straight night with solid attendance at Cracker Jack Stadium, as Friday's home opener was played before 4,720. The series continues tomorrow with the final game of the three-game set at 1:35 ET. The Rays will send righty Jim Magrane (2-0, 2.70) to the mound to take on righthander Jeremy Cummings (0-1, 7.20) for the Smokies. Tomorrow's game features the team picture giveaway to the first 1,000 fans through the gate. Gates open at 12:35 and good seats are still available. Call (407) 939-GAME (4263) for more info.
Southern League Stories from April 12, 2003
- O-Rays Win 3-2 - Knoxville Smokies
- O-Rays Rally To Stop Smokies in 9th - Orlando Rays
- Barons Top Mudcats, 4-1 - Birmingham Barons
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
