Sun Jun 22 18:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Rays Defeat Tigers 8-3, Tampa Bay Capitalizes on Early Errors**

**TAMPA, FL** – The Detroit Tigers suffered an 8-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on Saturday after a disastrous first inning set the tone for the game. The loss marks the Tigers’ third consecutive defeat.

The Rays jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first, fueled by a passed ball from catcher Jake Rogers that allowed Brandon Lowe to reach first after striking out. Pitcher Brant Hurter then struggled to regain control, walking Christopher Morel, Josh Lowe, and hitting José Caballero, contributing to the early onslaught. Taylor Walls capped off the inning with a two-run single.

“Giving Hurter an extra baserunner [on the passed ball] is painful when you look back at it,” Manager A.J. Hinch said.

Sawyer Gipson-Long, making his first Major League appearance on June 4 in 615 days, followed Hurter and pitched 6 1/3 innings. He allowed three solo home runs but provided much-needed length, helping the Tigers’ overused bullpen.

Offensively, the Tigers struggled against Rays starter Ryan Pepiot. However, a standout moment came in the eighth inning when Jahmai Jones delivered an RBI double after a 13-pitch at-bat.

Despite the loss, Manager Hinch remained optimistic, emphasizing the team’s overall strength and focus on improvement. “We have a good team. We’ll be fine,” Hinch stated. He also highlighted the importance of putting pressure on opponents, even in defeat.

The Tigers will look to rebound against the Rays in the series finale today at noon before enjoying a day off on Monday.

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