Ray was impressive in his Cactus League debut Thursday, retiring six straight batters over two innings after allowing a leadoff double, the team's official site reports.
Diamondbacks manager Chip Hale recently dubbed Ray the favorite for the fifth spot in the starting rotation, and spring outings like this should solidify his grip on the job. Ray is competing with Zack Godley, who gave up a three-run home run on Thursday, and Archie Bradley, who pitched two hitless innings on Wednesday.