Rob Issa, FISM News

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The undefeated Tampa Bay Rays are closing in on baseball history with a perfect start.

The Rays beat the Boston Red Sox 9-7 on Wednesday night for their 12th straight win to begin the season, and now sit one win away from tying the major league record.

The Milwaukee Brewers in 1987 and Atlanta Braves in 1982 both opened 13-0. The Rays can equal that mark with another win over the Red Sox on Thursday.

“When we’re doing something that is a franchise record, it’s pretty meaningful, impactful,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “So the guys should be really proud of that.”

Randy Arozarena hit a three-run homer to lead Tampa to its latest win. Taj Bradley pitched effectively to win his major league debut for the Rays. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up three runs and struck out eight over five innings. 

“Taj did a great job,” Rays catcher Christian Bethancourt said. “I think he did amazing. I had fun. It was very enjoyable. He was everything I expected.”

The Rays lead the majors with 30 home runs and they’ve outscored opponents 92-27. Ten of Tampa’s wins have been by at least a four-run margin.

“I think we’re putting everything together,” Bethancourt said. “We’re trying our best to be the best version of ourselves. We’re not being selfish. We’re just keeping the line going offensively. Pitching-wise, they’re doing an outstanding job, and hopefully we can continue and we can get where we want to be, which is the World Series.”

The Rays take on the Red Sox Thursday at 1:10 pm EST in Tampa Bay.