Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Rays First Game Revisited

On this date 18 years ago, both the Tampa Bay Rays and the Arizona Diamondbacks played their first regular season games, with similar different results.

The life of an expansion franchise is a difficult one. There is likely a reason as to why a player would be made available, even if they would seemingly appear to be a solid prospect or a star in the making. Typically, these franchises take their lumps during the first few seasons before settling in as major league caliber franchises.

That is the position that the Tampa Bay Rays and the Arizona Diamondbacks found themselves in 18 years ago. On this date in 1998, both franchises played their first regular season game in team history. Let us just say that it did not go well for either squad.

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Let’s start with Tampa Bay. The Devil Rays, as they were known then, lost 11-6 to the Detroit Tigers. Expected staff ace Wilson Alvarez was shelled, allowing six earned runs on nine hits in 2.1 innings, an inauspicious start to a season that would be derailed by injuries. On the positive side, Wade Boggs hit the Rays first ever home run, while Quentin McCracken and John Flaherty each had two hits.

The Diamondbacks also felt the sting of defeat, losing to the Rockies 9-2. Andy Benes also struggled, allowing five runs on nine hits in 6.1 innings, although most of that damage came as part of a five run seventh for the Rockies. Clint Sodowsky allowed three runs on three hits and a walk while retiring two batters that frame.On the positive side, Travis Lee was 3-4 with the Diamondbacks first home run, a solo shot off Darryl Kile in the sixth.

These debuts would set the tone for the rest of the season. The Rays finished the season with a 63-99 record, while the Diamondbacks were 65-97. Both teams were not the worst in baseball that year, however; that honor belonged to the Florida Marlins, who tore down their squad after winning the World Series.

Next: Royals have no need for revenge

Every journey has to begin somewhere. For the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Rays, that journey began with a loss 18 years ago.