Rays Bats Disappear in Rain-Soaked Loss
June 27, 2003 - Southern League (SL1)
Orlando Rays News Release
ORLANDO-West Tennessee limited the Orlando to one run on just four hits as the Diamond Jaxx downed the Rays 4-1 in front of 3,909 at a rainy Cracker Jack Stadium Friday.
With West Tennessee holding a 2-0 lead the teams were forced to their clubhouses as the skies opened up at the end of the fifth inning, halting game play for one hour, twenty minutes. Play resumed at 9:50 but the delay didn't help the struggling Rays offense, as the team managed just one hit over the final four frames. Brooks Badeaux provided nearly all the Rays offense, gathering two hits and driving in the Rays' only run with a solo home run to right field in the 8th inning.
John Webb (4-7) picked up the win after holding the Rays offense in check for the first five innings, limiting Orlando to just three hits. He worked himself out of trouble in the second and fifth innings as the Rays threatened but couldn't push across any runs, stranding two in the 2nd and leaving the bags full in the 5th. Jon Switzer (5-8) took the loss despite scattering six hits over the first five innings, allowing a pair of runs - one earned - while striking out three.
Orlando and West Tennessee square off again tomorrow at 7:05, with the Rays sending RHP Jim Magrane (7-3, 3.95) to the hill to take on LHP Aaron Krawiec (3-4, 3.25).
O-Rays Notes
· The Devil Rays released RP John Rocker prior to the start of Friday's game. The former major league closer had struggled in his comeback attempt, holding a 0-1, 9.15 ERA record in 23 appearances with the O-Rays. In 19.2 innings pitched the 28-year-old Rocker had allowed 23 hits and 23 runs - 20 earned - while walking 26 and striking out 20. RP Alex Santos was activated from the DL to take the vacant roster spot.
· Orlando closer Evan Rust was promoted to Class AAA Durham on Friday. Rust was 1-3, 2.65 with 11 saves in 30 games with Orlando. To fill his roster spot Tampa promoted RP Josh Parker from Class A Bakersfield, where he was 0-0 with 16 saves and a 1.38 ERA in 31 games.
· Saturday is Faith and Family Night at the ballpark, featuring a special post-game concert by Christian recording artist Geoff Moore. As always the game will feature the Saturday Night Fireworks Show following the game.
Southern League Stories from June 27, 2003
- Rays Bats Disappear in Rain-Soaked Loss - Orlando Rays
- BayBears fall again in Carolina - Mobile BayBears
- Ball hitting helmet puts game in hand - Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
- Smokies Win Sixth Straight - Knoxville Smokies
- Four BayBears named to SL All-Star Team - Mobile BayBears
- Stars Place Coaching Staff, Seven Players on West All-Star Squad - Huntsville Stars
- Dawkins, Villalon Earn SL Honors - SL1
- Stars to be Well Represented at Southern League All Star Game - Huntsville Stars
- SL Unveils West All-Stars - SL1
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