Rays starting pitcher Alex Cobb took the bump Monday night at home against the Rangers in a game with major Wild Card implications. Cobb was outstanding for manager Joe Maddon as he went eight strong innings for the Rays.

Cobb improved to 9-3 on the season with the win as he gave up just two earned runs on six hits and a walk on 106 pitches. He struck out 10 batters for Tampa Bay and lowered his ERA to 3.02.

The 25-year-old won for the first time since Aug. 20 at Baltimore but has finished eight innings twice in his last four starts. Cobb has been solid for the Rays since his return from the disabled list. He makes his next scheduled start Saturday at home against the Orioles.