Overview
- Drew Rasmussen allowed one run over seven innings in Sunday’s 3-1 Game 5 win that put Tampa Bay ahead 3-2 in the ALCS.
- Rookie Parker Messick struggled early and was removed after short outings, forcing Cleveland to use multiple relievers and taxing the bullpen.
- The Rays will start Freddy Peralta in Game 6 at Tropicana Field while the Guardians have not named a conventional starter and are planning a bullpen/opening approach.
- Tampa Bay’s offense supplied timely, small-ball production with Yandy Díaz collecting three hits and closer Bryan Baker converting the save to extend his postseason streak.
- If the Rays win Game 6 they will clinch the AL pennant and advance to face the NL champion Milwaukee Brewers in the World Series.