top of page

Braves vs. Rays Series Preview: Atlanta Looks to Build Momentum in Tampa

Baseball player in a white Braves jersey celebrates with a high-five. Others in matching jerseys are in the background, creating a lively mood.
Apr 10, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley (27) celebrates with teammates after scoring a run against the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

After a thrilling walk-off win against the Phillies, the Atlanta Braves (3–9) are in Tampa to face the Tampa Bay Rays (5–7) in a three-game series at George M. Steinbrenner Field. This temporary home for the Rays, due to hurricane damage at Tropicana Field, presents a unique setting for both teams.


Recent Performance

The Braves are coming off a much-needed series win over the division rival Philadelphia Phillies. Last night's game extended into extra innings and was a late one due to weather delays, but it concluded with a Marcell Ozuna walk-off two-run homer in the bottom of the 11th inning. This victory could be a turning point as Atlanta aims to climb out of their early-season slump.​


The Rays, meanwhile, are looking to rebound after a series loss to the LA Angels, capped by an 11-1 defeat where the Angels showcased their power with six home runs. Tampa Bay will be eager to leverage their home-field advantage at Steinbrenner Field to get back on track.​



Game Schedule and Probable Pitchers

  • Friday, April 11 – 7:05 PM ET

    • Braves: Bryce Elder (0-0, 6.75 ERA)​

    • Rays: Taj Bradley (1-0, 4.91 ERA)​

  • Saturday, April 12 – 4:10 PM ET

    • Braves: AJ Smith-Sawyer (0-2, 5.19 ERA)​

    • Rays: Drew Rasmussen (1-0, 0.90 ERA)​

  • Sunday, April 13 – 1:40 PM ET

    • Braves: Chris Sale (0-1, 6.75 ERA)​

    • Rays: Shane Baz (1-0, 1.38 ERA)​


Broadcast Information

All three games will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network.​


Venue Spotlight: George M. Steinbrenner Field

Steinbrenner Field, typically the New York Yankees' spring training facility, is serving as the Rays' temporary home due to hurricane damage at Tropicana Field. The stadium mirrors Yankee Stadium's dimensions, featuring a short porch in right field, which could benefit left-handed hitters. However, the open design makes it susceptible to wind conditions, potentially impacting gameplay.


Key Players to Watch

  • Braves:

    • Marcell Ozuna leads the team with a .316 batting average, two home runs, and seven RBIs.​

    • Austin Riley who was also clutch last night, has two home runs and leads Atlanta with four doubles.

  • Rays:

    • Brandon Lowe is off to a strong start, hitting .289 with three home runs and eight RBIs.​

    • Jonathan Aranda and Kameron Misner have also been key contributors to Tampa Bay's offense.​


Series Outlook: Braves Look to Keep Momentum

This series presents an opportunity for the Braves to build on their recent success and continue climbing out of their early-season struggles. For the Rays, it's a chance to rebound from recent losses and capitalize on their home-field advantage. With both teams eager to gain momentum, fans can expect a competitive and exciting series.​



Comments

bottom of page