The New What Next: Rays vs. Yankees, Part Three — A Series Preview

The Tampa Bay Rays split their first of two consecutive four-game sets on Sunday, and they’ll welcome the New York Yankees into the Trop on Monday.

Looking Backward While Moving Forward: Rays Win 7-2, Smyly Likely to Need Season Ending Surgery

Evan Longoria, Steven Souza Jr., and Asdrubal powered the Rays to their second straight victory over the Texas Rangers by a 7-2 score, Saturday night. Reliever Andrew Bellatti was the winning pitcher in his major league debut, while Brad Boxberger was credited with the save — his eighth of the season. Tampa Bay maintains solid footing in the AL East — just a game behind the Yankees — after winning four out of its last six, and six of its last 10.

Looking Backward While Moving Forward: Rays the Romp Rangers 8-2, Drew Smyly Placed on the DL

A little hope and a little despair. On the day that Alex Cobb was officially placed on the 60-day DL, Nathan Karns put together a solid seven plus inning outing, as the Tampa Bay Rays rolled to an 8-2 win over the Texas Rangers. Brandon Guyer extended the Rays lead with a sixth inning, pinch hit homer to back Karns’ solid start. Yet the night ended on a sour note, with news of another Ray who was placed on the DL.

Rays to Sign Dayron Varona

Per Steve Adams (MLB Trade Rumors), the Rays are set to sign 27 year-old Cuban outfielder Dayron Varona. It is speculated that he’ll be placed in Triple-A once he procures a visa. It isn’t known whether he may transition to the big leagues this season or not, although his skill set could make him an …