Rays vs. Yankees: Nelson Cruz out with bruised left foot
The Rays are looking to rebound from Tuesday’s frustrating loss to the Yankees tonight and will have to do so without Nelson Cruz in the starting lineup.
The veteran designated hitter was scratched because his left foot was sore and swollen as a result of of fouling a ball off it in Tuesday’s game. Manager Kevin Cash said x-rays were negative and the Rays are hoping that with treatment through the afternoon and evening Cruz might be available to pinch hit.
“He’s fine,” Cash said.
Brett Phillips went into the lineup in centerfield, with Austin Meadows moving to the DH slot.
The Rays will have veteran right-hander Michael Wacha on the mound.
Though Wacha’s overall work this season has been inconsistent, he had his best start of the season against the Yankees in April and said he believes that success will carry into tonight’s game.
The Yankees are starting lefty Nestor Cortes Jr., who is likely to be limited to 50-60 pitches. The Yankees are expected to add at least two relievers, having traded Luis Cessa and Justin Wilson to the Reds.
Here is the revised Rays lineup:
Margot rf
Franco ss
Meadows dh
Diaz 1b
Lowe 2b
Arozarena lf
Wendle 3b
Mejia c
Phillips cf
And here is the Yankees lineup:
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