Yesterday afternoon, the Tampa Bay Rays avoided a heart breaking loss as they rallied to overcome a 6-5 deficit with a two run ninth inning.

Emilio Pagan surrendered three runs during a ninth inning blown save to give the Mariners a 6-5 advantage, but Kevin Kiermaier led off the the bottom half of the frame with a solo blast to center field. The Rays would eventually load the bases after a Willy Adames single, Mihael Brosseu double, and Ji-Man Choi being intentionally walked. Tommy Pham was at the plate when a pitch was spiked, allowing Willy Adames to scamper home for the game winning run.

Emilio Pagan received the victory for the game, becoming the first Rays reliever since Victor Zambrano did it twice in 2001, to allow three runs in a blown save but go on to collect the victory.

The walk-off win also was the third of the Rays home stand, giving them walk-off victories during each game that they won during the six games at home.

The Oakland Athletics would win their game later, to remain tied with the Rays for the second Wild Card spot.

News and Links

• How Tommy Pham is still crushing balls – and helping the Rays win – even with a broken hand - Josh Tolentino, The Athletic
• Tampa Bay Rays Battle Through Home Woes, Inconsistent Play - Tom Layberger, Forbes
• Rays’ prospect Whitley seeks per­fection after injury last season - Chris Torello, Bay News 9