Jackson of old returns.

 Edwin Jackson looked so good in his first two starts of the season that I actually believed he had grown up and become the major leaguer everyone in the Rays organization says he “can” be. But his last two starts have been typical of his last seasons with the Rays, and can be harnessed by one word: inconsistency. Jackson lasted just over 4 innings on Sunday and gave up 6 earned runs, including a blast to Jim Thome. He didn’t appear to have a consist rhythm at all, and, surprise, surprise, the Ray’s offense didn’t help, only mustering 4 hits in getting shut out 6-0. Jackson has a blazing fastball, but if he doesn’t have control of it early on, setting up his other pitches becomes a problem. It was a frustrating game to watch on both offense and defense, and a complete momentum killer after last nights great game by the Ray’s. It is this over all inconsistency that makes being optimistic so darn hard.

The Daily Turn:

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 The Ray’s have an off day tomorrow and then travel to Orlando for a three game series with the Frank Thomas-less Blue Jays. While they are considered “home games”, these will feel more like away games for the Ray’s, as most will have to stay in a hotel.

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Evan Longoria was 0-3 today, making it two games in a row without a hit and dropping his average to .233.

3

Jeff Niemann was optioned back down to Triple A to make room for Dan Johnson, who will join the team in Orlando. Navarro is set to come off the DL in time for Tuesday’s game, so
look for Mike DiFelice to be released as well. I hate that move, as necessary as it may be. I think Riggo and DiFelice would be a good combination to have with the young pitchers. Navarro has been handed the job for the second season in a row, and has proved little on the major league level. Let’s hope that DiFelice clears waivers and makes it back to our farm system so we can recall him once Navarro proves to be worthless.

Quote of the Day:

“We got Sonnanstined.”

  -Joe Maddon in reference to being shutout today as teh Rays did to the White Sox yesterday.