ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Rays expected to have a closer-by-committee approach in the bullpen this season.
But 31-year-old Bryan Baker has emerged as the backbone of the bullpen. His fiery competitiveness and his four-seam fastball, paired with his changeup, have made Baker one of the top closers in Major League Baseball.
Tampa Bay Rays / MLB
Rays closer Bryan Baker
Coming into Monday’s game, in 23 appearances, he has a 2.53 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, 25 strikeouts, and only nine walks in 21 1/3 innings pitched. He ranked second in the American League and third in the majors with 14 saves.
Tampa Bay 28 sports anchor Kyle Burger grabbed a glove (a “bad luck” glove borrowed from Baker) and played a game of catch with the right-hander. The two had a “Catching Rays” conversation about Baker’s life on and off the field.
Kyle Burger
Kyle Burger and Bryan Baker at Tropicana Field.
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For Tampa Bay 28 Sports Anchor Kyle Burger, pride in our local teams goes beyond college and the pros. Sports connect us as communities and families. You can connect with Kyle to share your passion for your local athletes below.
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Three people injured after boat crashes into rocks on Hillsborough River: FWC
A bystander jumped in to help after a 19-foot vessel crashed into rocks near Ignacio Haya Linear Park on Sunday night, sending three people to the hospital.
Three injured in Hillsborough River boat crash near Ignacio Haya Linear Park