Rays overcome eight-run deficit

TORONTO — Jason Bartlett hit a run-scoring double in the 12th inning, capping the biggest comeback in Tampa Bay history, and the Rays erased an eight-run deficit to beat the Toronto Blue Jays, 10-9, on Saturday.

“That was a great game for us,” slugger Carlos Pena said. “It’s an incredible boost to our confidence.”

Down 8-0 after four innings, Tampa Bay cut its deficit to 9-7 heading into the ninth against closer Scott Downs. The Rays tied it on home runs by Pena and Willy Aybar, handing Downs his third blown save.

It’s the first time in their 12-year history that the Rays have overcome an eight-run deficit. It matched the largest lead the Blue Jays have squandered, done three times previously.