In the jubilant Tampa Bay clubhouse, pitcher Shane Baz celebrated his first win in over two years, following a lengthy recovery from Tommy John surgery.
Catcher Rob Brantly was also in high spirits, cradling his 8-month-old son, Bennett. Brantly’s family had made the trip for this special occasion—he hadn’t appeared in the majors since May 2022 and had just returned at age 35.
“It was amazing,” Brantly said, smiling at his son after the Rays’ 1-0 win over the Oakland Athletics, the day after being promoted from Triple-A Durham. “I didn’t know they’d make it until this morning, and when I finally spotted them in the stands—around midgame—it truly lifted my spirits. It gave me an extra boost today.
Brantly had played only one game for the Yankees on May 22, 2022.
Baz (1-2) hadn’t secured a major league win since a July 3, 2022, victory over the Blue Jays in Toronto.
Baz, who pitched a career-high 7 2/3 innings, allowed three hits, struck out four, and walked three after missing the previous season due to recovery from surgery.
“It’s challenging,” Baz said about his extended recovery. “You have to take it one day at a time and work towards getting better so you’re ready to succeed when you return. I’m definitely pleased with tonight.”
Both Baz and Brantly enjoyed their successful outing and supported each other throughout the game.
“Everyone saw how electric his stuff was,” Brantly said. “He had all four of his pitches working, which made my job easier.”
The pair had previously played together at Durham, which helped them feel more at ease.
Manager Kevin Cash was thrilled with their performance.
“That was really special,” Cash said. “Throwing a shutout is tough, and we achieved it with Edwin Uceta as well. Brantly played a significant role, and I’m so glad he could have this moment with everything going well.
