The New York Yankees (21-18) will host the Tampa Bay Rays (30-9) on Saturday in the third game of a four-game series. The Rays took the opening game 8-2, and Friday's contest was not complete at the time of this preview.
The Rays have the best record in the big leagues and hold a five-game lead over the second-place Orioles in the AL East. After a blazing start to the season, the Rays have stayed consistent in their recent games, winning seven out of their last 10 contests. Their offense has been tremendous, leading all of MLB in home runs, RBI, runs, RBI, and tied for third in stolen bases. Randy Arozarena has been fantastic with a .312 batting average, nine home runs, and a team-best 30 RBI. Yandy Diaz has also added nine home runs and drove in 20 runs.
30 wins in 42 days. Seem aight. #RaysUp
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) May 12, 2023
On the mound, Shane McClanahan has greatly impacted the Rays' success. Tampa Bay has won each of the eight games McClanahan (7-0, 1.76 ERA) has started this season and has recorded 58 strikeouts in 46 innings. McClanahan who will start Saturday, is 1-3 with a 3.26 ERA in six career outings against the Yankees. In the bullpen, the Rays have been supported by a group of reliable relievers. Jason Adams has anchored the back of the bullpen with a 1.17 ERA, four saves, and four holds.