In a thrilling ninth-inning comeback, Josh Lowe's two-run double propelled the Tampa Bay Rays to a 3-2 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday night. The Rays, clinging to the best record in Major League Baseball, were trailing 2-0 heading into the final frame. Lowe, not initially expected to bat until later in the inning, had his gear on and ready, anticipating a crucial moment. His foresight proved correct as he smashed a fastball into left-center field, driving in two runs and securing the win for Tampa Bay.
The dramatic turn of events overshadowed a strong performance by Diamondbacks starter Zach Davies, who pitched seven scoreless innings, allowing just two hits. Arizona built a 2-0 lead with timely two-out singles in the third and fourth innings. However, the Rays' offense awakened in the ninth. Yandy Díaz and Wander Franco ignited the rally with consecutive singles, and Luke Raley's single brought home Díaz to cut the deficit to one. After two quick outs, Lowe stepped up and delivered the game-winning hit.
Diamondbacks reliever Scott McGough, who entered the game with an impressive streak of scoreless innings, took the loss. Rays manager Kevin Cash praised Lowe's clutch performance, acknowledging that the young outfielder had been working through a challenging stretch. The victory allowed Tampa Bay to maintain its hold on the best record in baseball, a position they've held since their remarkable 13-0 start to the season. Despite the loss, Arizona remains on pace for a 96-win season, a remarkable turnaround from their 110-loss campaign just two years ago.
The series between the Diamondbacks and Rays is a unique encounter between the two most recent MLB expansion teams, both joining the league in 1998. The Rays currently hold a 14-10 edge in the head-to-head matchup.
