The Tampa Bay Rays have given themselves another chance to make history. After an incredible 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in 12 innings in Game 4, Tampa Bay will look to win again Wednesday night and keep its World Series comeback hopes alive.
Milwaukee still leads the series 3-1 and needs just one more victory to capture the first World Series championship in franchise history. However, the Rays’ dramatic walk off win has given the team renewed confidence heading into Game 5 at Tropicana Field.
First pitch is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, with the game airing on FOX. After coming within three outs of elimination, Tampa Bay will attempt to build on its momentum and force the series back to Milwaukee.
Brewers Look to Finish the Job
The Brewers have controlled most of the series, winning the first three games behind timely hitting and strong pitching. Despite Tuesday night’s heartbreaking defeat, Milwaukee remains in an excellent position to secure the championship.
Right-hander Jacob Misiorowski is expected to start Game 5 for Milwaukee. The young ace has been one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers this season, leading the majors with a 1.80 ERA and 252 strikeouts during the regular season.
Misiorowski also delivered five innings of one-run baseball in his Game 1 start against Tampa Bay. If he can repeat that performance, Milwaukee could put itself in position to finish the series.
The Brewers will also need their offense to respond after letting Game 4 slip away. Rookie Cooper Pratt delivered a go ahead home run in the 12th inning Tuesday, but Milwaukee ultimately could not secure the final three outs.
With the championship within reach, avoiding costly defensive mistakes will be essential.
Rays Face Another Elimination Test
Tampa Bay enters Game 5 with momentum but also significant pitching concerns. The Rays used seven pitchers in Tuesday’s marathon, leaving manager Kevin Cash with difficult decisions about how to manage the bullpen.
The starting pitcher has not been firmly established, meaning Tampa Bay could rely heavily on its bullpen to get through the game.
Offensively, the Rays must continue delivering clutch hits. Their Game 4 comeback featured key contributions from Jonny DeLuca and pinch-hitter Ben Williamson, whose walk-off single kept the season alive.
Tampa Bay will also need Junior Caminero to remain productive after the third baseman left Game 4 with a foot injury. His availability could be an important factor in the Rays’ offensive plans.
