The Tampa Bay Rays are proving they're a force to be reckoned with, extending their scorching-hot streak to 16 wins in their last 18 games after a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in 10 innings on Tuesday night.
Taylor Walls delivered the clutch hit the Rays needed, driving in the go-ahead run with an RBI single in the top of the 10th inning. With automatic runner Cedric Mullins on second base, Walls chopped a single through a drawn-in infield off Blue Jays reliever Braydon Fisher (2-1) to put Tampa Bay ahead 6-5. Jonathan Aranda followed with a sacrifice fly to center field, giving the Rays a crucial two-run cushion.
The Blue Jays fought back in the bottom half, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. lifting a sacrifice fly off Garrett Cleavinger, but the Rays' reliever held on to secure his first save of the season.
Ryan Vilade continued his power surge with his second home run of the year, while Mullins drove in two runs as the American League-leading Rays (28-13) won their sixth straight series.
The game looked like a comfortable win early for Tampa Bay, which built a 5-0 lead behind starter Shane McClanahan. The left-hander was dominant, striking out seven and allowing just one hit over five shutout innings, extending his scoreless streak to an impressive 21 2/3 innings.
But Toronto refused to go quietly. The Blue Jays erupted for five runs in the seventh inning against three Rays relievers. Pinch-hitter Jesús Sánchez chased Casey Legumina with an RBI double, and George Springer followed with an RBI single. Yohendrick Piñango then delivered a two-run double, and Guerrero's infield chopper off third baseman Junior Caminero's glove tied the game at 5-5.
The game featured some unusual moments, including a wild pitch in the sixth inning that struck plate umpire Chris Segal in the knee. Segal went down in pain but remained in the game after receiving attention from Toronto's trainer. In the fourth inning, Blue Jays second baseman Lenyn Sosa slid into umpire Laz Diaz's legs while chasing a ground ball, but Diaz stayed on his feet.
The series continues Wednesday with Blue Jays right-hander Dylan Cease (3-1, 2.58 ERA) taking the mound against Rays righty Griffin Jax (1-2, 5.00 ERA).