Game 28 Preview: Tampa Bay Rays vs Los Angeles Angels

The Rays jumped ahead early yesterday with a four run first and were able to hold on for the rest of the game leading to a 5-2 victory over the Angels. The victory put the Rays again on the cusp of reaching .500 as they sit at 13-14, meanwhile the Angels fell to 13-16.

The rest of the American League East have already completed games today, with the Orioles actually currently playing in the second game of a double header, and all of the teams ahead of the Rays in the division have lost meaning the Rays could gain some ground with a victory tonight. Currently, they sit two and half games behind the division leaders. The Angels meanwhile still sit three games back of the Mariners in the West.

Today's Starting Pitchers:

Odorizzi was excellent his last time out, only to have the bullpen fall apart and squander his stellar outing while his offensive support was moot with the exception a solo Evan Longoria home run. Odorizzi picked up a no-decision, despite delivering seven innings of one run ball, while he allowed two hits, walked two, and struck out six. It was certainly nice to Odorizzi succeed though, as he built off his past start after going through a couple of tough outings before.

Jered Weaver Scouting Report:

Jered Weaver has delivered a few successful outings this season despite having his fastball top out in the low 80's. Weaver has to rely on command and fooling opposing hitters in order to give his team a chance to win, and over his last two starts, he hasn't accomplished that, especially during his last outing on the 2nd against the Brewers where he lasted just five innings and gave up seven runs on 11 hits, while he walked two and struck out three, picking up first loss of the season.

His arsenal:

His splits:

Today's Starting Lineups