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Cron cranks 3-run blast in first inning vs. Mets

NEW YORK -- C.J. Cron wasn't supposed to be in the Rays' lineup Sunday.

Then Kevin Kiermaier's back tightened up, and manager Kevin Cash had to make some adjustments. Mallex Smith moved to center field, Jake Bauers moved into the outfield and Cron became the first baseman.

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And in the top of the first inning, Cron made it all look good. He sent a 3-1 fastball from Mets starter Chris Flexen into the second deck in left field, giving the Rays an early 3-0 lead.