Rays Fall to Smokies
April 26, 2003 - Southern League (SL1)
Orlando Rays News Release
Sevierville, Tenn. - Brian Stokes and the Orlando Rays deserved better.
After matching Smokies starting pitcher Rhett Parrott goose egg for goose egg through five innings, Stokes turned the game over to bullpen in the 6th . Reliever Mark Malaska tossed 1 1/3 innings of scoreless ball before giving way to John Benedetti (0-1), who carried a 1-0 lead into the bottom of the eighth but was stung by the long ball, as Tennessee hit a pair of home runs, propelling the Smokies to a 3-1 win.
Despite not figuring in the decision, Stokes gave the Rays exactly what they needed - a strong outing from their starter. Stokes left after the 5th inning after holding Tennessee to four hits over 5.0 innings, striking out five while walking four.
Gabby Martinez and Matt Diaz each had two hits for the Rays, who dropped their ninth straight game on the road trip. OF Dan DeMent and catcher Chairon Isenia each added doubles for Orlando. The series continues tomorrow at 6 PM ET, as the Rays send righty Doug Waechter (1-1, 2.86) to the mound against Dan Haren (3-0, 1.38).
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Southern League Stories from April 26, 2003
- Stars Beat G-Braves, 4-3 - Huntsville Stars
- BayBears take series opener in Chattanooga - Mobile BayBears
- Rays Fall to Smokies - Orlando Rays
- Suns stage comeback, win 7-1 - Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
- Stars and Bears Supspended by Rain - Huntsville Stars
- Barons Sweep Doubleheader, 8-5 and 4-2 - Birmingham Barons
- Barons Keep Orlando Sliding with Sweep - Orlando Rays
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