Series Preview: The Rays And The Yankees

Sep 4, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Chris Capuano (26) pitches during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

Game Two

The Yankees turn to Chris Capuano to start the second game of the series on Wednesday. It took the veteran lefty some time to earn his first win in pinstripes, although he’s pitched better than many expected him to when the Yankees acquired him from the Colorado Rockies for cash. Cap struggled his last time out however, yielding a pair of bombs to Red Sox’ DH David Ortiz. Cap lasted only 4 1/3, giving up 4 earned, and gave up a third bomb in the outing. It was by far, his worst start as a member of the Yankees. Several Rays’ hitters have had success against Capuano, so look for an offensive outburst by Tampa.

The Yankees’ hitters will most likely struggle in this outing, as Jake Odorizzi (10-11, 3.84 ERA) gets the nod for Tampa. Over his last 14 1/3 innings pitched, he hasn’t allowed a single earned run. The good news however, is that in just over 9 frames against the Bombers in 2014, he’s given up 6 earned runs. Very few of the current Yankees have extended success against Odorizzi, so it will be a battle of experience versus momentum in this one.