It’s the battle of the aces as Masahiro Tanaka (4-3, 3.88 ERA) takes on Chris Archer (9-5, 2.31 ERA) and the Rays. Tanaka had a six run cushion to work with in his last outing in Houston, but left with a no decision. He gave up a career high three homers with six runs on seven hits through five innings.
There’s some frustration, which there should be. As long as that frustration leads into correction and adjusting what we need to adjust, that’s good. I wouldn’t expect him to take it in stride because it’s been a while since he’s had any struggles, really. The good ones come out on top of it and I expect he will. -Larry Rothschild
Archer was also roughed up in his last outing against Boston. He also gave up a career high three homers leading to five runs on five hits through six innings. He did have 10 K’s in that game though. He is 5-0 with a 2.02 ERA in seven career starts against the Yanks.
Tidbits:
Archer was 4-0 with a 1.80 ERA before that loss to Boston.
Rothschild said Tanaka is having “mechanical issues” and they have to work on his pitch selection.
Brett Gardner has a nine game hitting streak during which he is 18-39 (.462) with eight extra base hits and nine runs scored. He is 7-18 (.389) lifetime against Archer with two doubles and two triples.
7:05 pm on Yes.
