Tampa Bay, say hello to Richie Shaffer.
Shaffer, the Rays’ publicized young infielder, went three-for-three, scored three runs and had the game-winning home run for the Rays, as they won their series with a 4-3 victory over the New York Mets. Shaffer, playing designated hitter in his first game at Tropicana Field, led off the seventh inning with his tie-breaking homer.
For the second straight game, the Rays fell behind 3-0 early. This time, it was when Rays’ starter Chris Archer walked four batters and gave up a two-run single to Daniel Murphy in the second inning. Archer, who was going for a career-high 11th victory, finished with a no-decision.
The Rays had tied the game with a two-run fifth on John Jaso’s double with Shaffer and Brandon Guyer both on board.
The Rays closed out the game perfectly for the second straight night. Xavier Cedeno got the win, Steve Geltz got the hold and Jake McGee got his sixth save.
The victory brought the Rays back to a .500 record.
Tampa Bay now plays host to the Atlanta Braves Tuesday night with Erasmo Ramirez on the mound.
