Young guns are producing

The young arms of Edwin Jackson, Jeff Niemann, and Andy Sonnanstine, and Jason Hamel are providing the Rays with much needed consistency and innings so far this season. The four pitchers are a combined 5-2, with each averaging over 6 innings per start.

Jackson has been dominant in his first two starts, giving up only a single run thus far. Command of both his fastball and slider have been vastly improved since last year.

Jeff Niemann made his Major League debut on Sunday going 6 strong innings, allowing only one run. His 93 pitch effort was nearly flawless against the Orioles.

Sonnanstine and Hamel have battled through adversity in each of their starts and have been able to rack up needed innings to help the bullpen.

Meanwhile, the return of Scott Kazmir and Matt Garza looks promising towards the end of April. Kazmir is throwing regularly while Garza is no longer feeling the ill effects of his arm strain. Both players are currently on the 15 day disabled list.