Rays’ Shane Baz Dominates Pirates with Career-High Strikeouts

TAMPA, Fla. — Shane Baz delivered a stellar performance for the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday night, striking out a career-high 10 batters while leading the team to a 7-0 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The match marked Baz’s first outing against his former team since being part of the controversial Chris Archer trade in 2018.

In six shutout innings, Baz commanded the mound with a fastball that peaked at 100.4 mph, complemented by an impressive curveball that induced swing-and-miss plays from the hitters. Overall, Baz allowed only seven hits, all singles, and notably did not issue any walks. “He hit 100 mph a couple of times, throwing 86-mph breaking balls,” said Rays second baseman Brandon Lowe. “I mean, what are you supposed to do with that?”

Baz’s performance came as the Rays seized sole possession of first place in the American League East for the first time since July 18, 2023, following a loss by the New York Yankees. Rays manager Kevin Cash praised Baz’s ability, remarking, “He threw the ball extremely well. I thought all of his pitches were working well.”

The Rays’ offense provided vital support as well, scoring three runs in the first inning. Following singles from Yandy Díaz and Brandon Lowe, rookie Jake Mangum delivered a double that drove in both runners. Two batters later, López struck again, bringing home Mangum for the team’s third run.

After his disappointing debut, Mangum has since recorded an impressive 7-for-8 performance over his last two games, contributing significantly to the Rays’ recent success. “Stepping in the box, believing I can get the job done — that’s really it, man,” said Mangum. “There’s no secret sauce or anything. It’s just believing in yourself.”

The Rays’ rotation continues to impress, boasting a collective ERA of 1.24 while averaging just under six innings per start. Tampa Bay pitchers currently lead the American League with an overall ERA of 1.60.

Baz’s solid outing adds to the mounting optimism surrounding the Rays this season, especially as they prepare to face the Angels at home on Wednesday. “The performance by our pitchers has been outstanding,” Cash noted.

As the team looks ahead, Rays fans are hopeful that the organization can continue its strong start against formidable opponents in the weeks to come.