Rays use 10-run fifth to top Marlins

 

Carl Crawford hit two home runs to pace the visiting Tampa Bay Rays to a 15-3 win over the host Florida Marlins on Wednesday night.

Crawford’s second home run started the 10-run fifth inning that put the game out of reach. He finished the night with a career-high five RBI. Rookie third baseman Evan Longroia added three hits and three RBI, including his 13th home run of the season.

James Sheilds (5-5) allowed four hits, one run and struck out five over seven innings, getting his first win in eights tarts for the Rayes, who beat the Marlins for the second straight night and clinched the season series between the two in-state teams.

The Marlins lone offensive highlight was Mike Jacobs’ 18th home run and Dan Uggla contributed his 58th RBI of the season for Florida, which has dropped eight of its last 12 games.

Ryan Tucker (2-2) was saddled with the lloss and he pitched four innings allowing eight hits and seven runs before being relieved by newly called up Eulogio De La Cruz.

De La Cruz was making his second appearance with the Marlins, first since he replaced Matt Lindstrom in the bullpen, and couldn’t get one out before givin gup six runs (five earned) and getting replaced by Logan Kensing.