WASHINGTON -- The Tampa Bay Rays have changed their starting pitcher for Wednesday's game against the Washington Nationals, slotting right-hander Steven Geltz in place of Matt Andriese on a night where rain is in the forecast.
"We definitely don't want to burn Matt Andriese, who can give us some length, and then be delayed because of the weather," Rays manager Kevin Cash said.
Geltz is typically a reliever but also started and pitched the first two innings in an NL park against the Miami Marlins on April 10.
"We value the opportunity to use that pinch-hitter spot if it's a chance for us to put some runs on the board early," Cash said.
The rookie right-hander Andriese has started in four of his eight appearances. He's expected to pitch later Wednesday.
