Rays 5, Astros 2: Stanek and Nuno outduel an ace

Justin Verlander vs. the Rays’ depleted pitching staff throwing an opener/headliner-bullpen day combo was always going to be a mismatch. I mean, it’s 2018, people. You can’t just roll a starter our there and expect him to compete.

Over five innings, Verlander gave up five runs on nine hits, while striking out eight and walking one. Opposite him, Ryne Stanek and Vidal Nuno, working the opener/headliner combination, lasted 6.2 innings, giving up two runs (one unearned) on four hits, with six strikeouts and no walks.

I’m going to give you those lines in table form, for easy comparison. Then I’ll take the tongue out of my cheek. Promise.

Okay, so pitching Vidal Nuno for 4.2 innings against an ace…