How pitcher Jake Woodford secured a 2026 World Series ring before Game 1 of the Fall Classic even starts.
In a rare twist of Major League Baseball fate, right-handed relief pitcher Jake Woodford is already guaranteed to receive a 2026 World Series ring. Even though Game 1 of the Fall Classic between the Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers has yet to be played, MLB rules confirm his status.
Woodford secured this unique distinction after spending time with both pennant-winning organizations during the 2026 baseball season. His journey through multiple clubhouses this year ultimately positioned him to claim a championship ring regardless of which team wins the final series.
The announcement was officially revealed by Major League Baseball, clarifying the roster regulations that apply to players traded or released during the championship campaign, according to information published by AMERICAN FOOTBALL.
Jake Woodford 2026 Season Journey With Multiple MLB Teams
Woodford began the 2026 season with the Milwaukee Brewers, appearing in 16 games out of the bullpen before being released in July. Following a brief stint with the Chicago Cubs, he signed a minor-league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays in August.
After joining the Triple-A affiliate in Tampa, Woodford received a major league call-up on September 24. He made his lone regular-season appearance for the Rays that very same day, locking in his official service time with the franchise.
Roster Status and Fall Classic Eligibility for Relief Pitchers
Although Woodford is no longer on the active 26-man roster for the Tampa Bay Rays after being designated for assignment following his September 24 appearance, his regular-season contributions still qualify him for recognition.
Because he suited up for both the Brewers and the Rays during the 2026 campaign, league precedent guarantees that the journeyman reliever will be acknowledged as a member of whichever club hoists the championship trophy.
Career History of Journeyman Pitcher Jake Woodford
Drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2015, Woodford made his MLB debut with the organization in 2020. Over his career, the 29-year-old pitcher has spent time across eight different professional organizations.
To date, Woodford has pitched in 130 Major League Baseball games with seven different teams. Throughout 283.2 innings pitched, the right-hander maintains a 5.36 career ERA as a dependable bullpen arm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Jake Woodford guaranteed a World Series ring in 2026?
Jake Woodford is guaranteed a 2026 World Series ring because he played for both the Tampa Bay Rays and the Milwaukee Brewers during the regular season, qualifying him for a championship share regardless of the Fall Classic outcome.
Which teams did Jake Woodford play for during the 2026 MLB season?
During the 2026 baseball season, Woodford pitched for the Milwaukee Brewers, spent time in the Chicago Cubs organization, and finished his regular season with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Will Jake Woodford pitch in the 2026 World Series for the Rays?
No, Woodford will not pitch in the Fall Classic because he was designated for assignment by the Tampa Bay Rays following his lone September 24 appearance and is not on their 26-man roster.
