Rays Blow Four-Run Lead in World Series Game 2 Loss to Brewers
· Yahoo Sports
The Tampa Bay Rays appeared to be in complete control of Game 2 of the World Series after jumping out to a four-run lead in the first inning. However, that advantage quickly disappeared as Drew Rasmussen struggled to pitch deep into the contest, forcing Kevin Cash to rely on his bullpen earlier than expected.
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Milwaukee eventually completed the comeback, defeating Tampa Bay 5-4 after Cooper Pratt delivered the go-ahead RBI single in the seventh inning. And with the Brewers now leading the World Series 2-0, the Rays are facing a difficult situation heading back to Tropicana Field.
Here is what you need to know from the contest.
Rays Get Off to Hot Start
Tampa Bay couldn't have asked for a better start to Game 2.
The Rays jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning against Milwaukee starter Logan Henderson.
Chandler Simpson and Junior Caminero each delivered RBI singles before Liam Hicks connected on a two-run home run to extend Tampa Bay's advantage.
It was exactly the offensive production the Rays needed after struggling throughout Game 1. Unfortunately, that momentum didn't last.
Rasmussen Couldn't Give Length
Drew Rasmussen entered Saturday's contest having allowed just three earned runs across 21 postseason innings.
However, the right-hander struggled to find the same success against Milwaukee.
The Brewers responded with two runs in the bottom of the first inning, immediately cutting Tampa Bay's lead in half.
And while Rasmussen managed to settle down, he couldn't pitch deep enough into the contest.
The Rays eventually turned to Cam Booser in the fourth inning with the bases loaded.
Rasmussen finished with six hits allowed and three earned runs across 3.2 innings of work. He struck out 4 Brewers batters in the process.
Bullpen Struggles Continue
Unfortunately, Tampa Bay's bullpen couldn't protect the remaining lead.
Ian Seymour surrendered a solo home run to Sal Frelick in the sixth inning, tying the contest at four.
Milwaukee eventually took the lead in the seventh when Cooper Pratt delivered an RBI single against Kevin Kelly.
And while Tampa Bay's relievers have delivered several important performances throughout the postseason, Saturday was another reminder of how quickly things can change.
Offense Disappears Early
The most frustrating part of Saturday's loss was Tampa Bay's inability to build on its early offensive success.
After scoring four runs in the first inning, the Rays failed to score again.
Milwaukee's bullpen took control of the contest, preventing Tampa Bay from completing another comeback.
And considering the Rays entered the second inning with a four-run advantage, I think the offense needed to do considerably more, especially after Rasmussen struggled to pitch deep into the game.
What's Next?
The Rays now return to Tropicana Field facing a 2-0 deficit in the World Series.
However, Tampa Bay will have an opportunity to respond Monday night with Freddy Peralta taking the mound in Game 3.
The ALCS MVP will face his former organization after delivering several impressive performances throughout October. And while the Rays still have an opportunity to turn this series around, they cannot afford another disappointing performance.
First pitch on Monday is scheduled for 8 PM EST.