The Rays catch a break.  They don’t have to face another left-handed pitcher.  After starting the season on the Disabled List, Scott Baker is off to a slow start.  He’s 0-2 with a 12.46 ERA.  But, he’s coming off an 11-4 2008 season, so it’s probable that at some point, he’ll get into his groove.

The Rays have only faced Baker twice.  Baker is 1-0 with a 3.86 ERA against Tampa Bay.  It’s hard to find notable success by any Rays hitter.  Carl Crawford is 1 for 2.  Gabe Kapler and Dionner Navarro are 1 for 3, although it’s unlikely that Kapler will be in the lineup. 

On the mound for the Rays will be Jeff Niemann.  Jeff faced Minnesota last season out of the bullpen, throwing a perfect 1 1/3 innings, striking out one.  This season, he’s 1-2 in three starts with a 5.40 ERA.