Marc Topkin’s takeaways from Wednesday’s Rays game against Tigers

Thursday could be a big day for the Rays. Going back to the start of the 2011 season, the Rays have won only one of their past eight series against the Tigers in Comerica Park. After losing Tuesday and winning Wednesday, they have a chance.

Oliver Drake has been a welcome, valuable addition to the Rays’ bullpen. He showed it again Wednesday, getting the final six outs without any of the drama that has popped up in these types of situations too often this year. The well-traveled journeyman may have found a home.

Christian Arroyo has quietly provided a boost to the Rays lineup, especially in a week where they face four lefty starters. His confidence at the plate is easy to see, and his versatility in the field is a help too as he can play third, shortstop and second.

The Rays seem to have played it right in giving Avisail Garcia three days off to rest his sore left hamstring. He has come back and had big hits in both games in Detroit as the DH. The next test is putting him back in the field, which they likely will do Thursday.