Jonny DeLuca Returns as Rays Beat Nationals Behind Jonathan Aranda's Big Night

The Tampa Bay Rays started the weekend series at home strong against the Washington Nationals on Friday. 

The team picked up a 5-2 victory at Tropicana Field. A strong start after going 1-5 on their recent West Coast trip. 

And one of the biggest areas of concern received some good news as well. 

The Rays outfield not only had a good game, but Jonny DeLuca returned to the active roster after being on the injured list, dealing with a right hamstring strain. Outfielder Austin Slater was designated for assignment to make room for DeLuca. 

It was a welcoming start for the outfielder after he got off to a slow start at the plate. He began the game going 0 for 3 with a strikeout, but things changed in the bottom of the 8th. DeLuca took Miles Mikolas 398 feet for a solo shot to move the Rays lead to 3.

Both Cedric Mullins and Chandler Simpson found themselves on base in the game, slowly adding more confidence to the batting order that has struggled offensively the past few weeks. 

Mullins, who has dealt with his fair share of criticism this season due to his struggles at the plate, has certainly begun to figure it out. 

If the outfield can show consistent success through August 3rd's deadline, Eric Neander and the Tampa Bay front office could focus on bolstering other glaring needs on the roster to push for a World Series in 2026. 

The big play of the night from the Rays offense, however, was from Jonathan Aranda. Hitting a 3-run homer to give the Rays their first lead, and never lost it the rest of the way. 

The home run was number 12 for Aranda on the season and his 51st RBI, as he continues to have an outstanding first half of the season. 

They will look to keep improving at home as they prepare to play the second game of the series against the Nationals on Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 4:10 PM ET.