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Thomas Bassinger’s takeaways from the Rays’ 5-2 win over Detroit

Tampa Bay Rays right fielder Carlos Gomez (27) scores on a single by Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Willy Adames (1) as Detroit Tigers catcher John Hicks (55) makes the late tag in the third inning Tuesday, July 10, 2018 in St. Petersburg. CHRIS URSO   |   Times
Tampa Bay Rays right fielder Carlos Gomez (27) scores on a single by Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Willy Adames (1) as Detroit Tigers catcher John Hicks (55) makes the late tag in the third inning Tuesday, July 10, 2018 in St. Petersburg. CHRIS URSO | Times
Published July 11, 2018|Updated July 11, 2018

ST. PETERSBURG — Takeaways from the Rays' 5-2 victory Tuesday over the Tigers before 13,478 at Tropicana Field:

1. With Tuesday night's win, the Rays improved to 47-44, putting them three games over .500 for the first time this season. The last time they were three games over .500: Aug. 6. They've won 13 of their past 14 games at home.

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2. The Rays are a lot closer to 90 wins than the 90 losses that so many people predicted before the season started. Some seasons that'd be enough to contend for a playoff spot, but not this season. The Yankees and Mariners are too far out in front.

3. Remember when Angels infielder Zack Cozart called the Rays' bullpen strategy "bad for baseball"? Baseball and the Rays seem like they're doing okay these days.

Contact Thomas Bassinger at tbassinger@tampabay.com.  Follow @tometrics.