Oakland Athletics lose to Tampa Bay Rays 0-5 – MLB Update
Oakland Athletics were outclassed by the Tampa Bay Rays 0-5 at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida on Thursday, August 23 in the opening game of their three match series of the 2012 Major League Baseball regular season.
With their win, the Rays improved their record to 70-55, threatening the New York Yankees at the top of American League East standings table. Credit goes to Manager Joe Maddon who has taken some bold steps to help his team come out of the slump.
Starting pitcher Alex Cobb played a key role in deciding the outcome of the clash as he pitched nine effective innings to make quick work of the A’s batting line-up. Showing great composure, ability to handle pressure and maturity on the mound, Cobb struck-out
eight batters and did not give up a run against the red hot Oakland’s offence.
"We just couldn't figure (Cobb) out tonight," manager Bob Melvin said. "He was throwing chase-fastballs to us. Every time we were looking for a fastball he threw a breaking ball, and every time we were looking for a breaking ball he threw a fastball, so
he was pretty unpredictable tonight."
His counterpart from Athletics, Tyson Ross lost after pitching four scoreless innings. Oakland’s starter gave up five runs in the fifth inning to let the Rays establish complete control over the contest. Overall he gave up nine hits and five runs in six
innings while striking-out six batters. He will be definitely looking to make a strong come back.
"Now I've just got to move forward," Ross said. "Learn as much as I can about relieving, and be ready come September. I'm excited about the opportunity. Out of the 'pen, I think I have a chance to help this team win some games."
For the Rays, Ryan Roberts scored the opening, thanks to a sacrifice fly hit to centre in the fifth inning that broke the deadlock. Matt Joyce and Evan Longoria also made useful contributions with the bat. Surely, the A’s will be looking to turn the tables
on Tampa Bay in Game 2 of the series.
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