Archer -- who threw three perfect innings, complete with five strikeouts in the 1-0 loss -- will depart from Rays camp to join Team USA's pursuit in the World Baseball Classic.
"I felt really good," Archer said. "The way everything was coming out of my hand. Changeup, fastball, breaking ball, everything felt good. ... I was full-intensity. Under control, but full-intensity today."
Archer's velocity showed a pitcher well advanced for this stage of Spring Training as the right-hander hit 97 mph and lived at 95-96.
Archer also showed a new wrinkle he's been experimenting with by using a pause in his delivery, much like fellow starter Alex Cobb.