Tampa Bay moves one win away from the World Series following a strong pitching performance by Drew Rasmussen.
The Tampa Bay Rays moved just one win away from reaching the World Series after defeating the Cleveland Guardians 3-1 in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series on Sunday.
Playing away from home, the visiting Rays relied on a stellar, five-shutout-inning outing from starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen to seize control of the postseason matchup, according to information published by bleache.
With this crucial victory, Tampa Bay now holds a commanding lead in the series and will have the opportunity to close out the pennant race at home on Monday.
Rays Take Early Lead in Game 5
It was all Tampa Bay through the majority of the game as the visitors manufactured early runs. Jonny DeLuca opened the scoring in the top of the first inning by drawing a bases-loaded walk against Parker Messick.
The Rays added another run in the top of the second when Jonathan Aranda singled to left field, driving in a teammate to extend the early advantage.
Liam Hicks made it a 3-0 game in the top of the third inning, putting the pressure firmly on the Cleveland Guardians early in the contest.
Defensive Battles and Late Guardians Push
Tampa Bay nearly added another run in the fourth inning, but a tremendous throw from Steven Kwan prevented further damage from the surging offense.
After five shutout innings from Drew Rasmussen, Cleveland finally broke through on a fielder's choice in the bottom of the sixth to cut the deficit to two runs.
In the top of the ninth, Kwan came through with another outstanding defensive play to prevent extra bases and keep his team within striking distance.
Ninth Inning Thriller and Series Outlook
The Guardians had the heart of the order up in the bottom of the ninth trying to force extra innings, and Chase DeLauter drew a walk to bring the tying run to the plate.
Jo Adell subsequently grounded to shortstop Taylor Walls, who threw out DeLauter at second base while Adell reached safely at first.
Following a caught foul ball from Nathaniel Lowe for the second out, Travis Bazzana grounded out to officially end the game and seal the win for the Rays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won Game 5 of the ALCS between the Rays and Guardians?
The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Cleveland Guardians 3-1 in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series.
How many wins do the Tampa Bay Rays need to reach the World Series?
The Tampa Bay Rays are now just one win away from reaching the World Series, seeking their first appearance since 2020.
Who was the starting pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 5?
Drew Rasmussen was the starting pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays, delivering five shutout innings against the Cleveland Guardians.
