Rays Beat Guardians 3-1 in ALCS Game 5 to Take 3-2 Series Lead

The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Cleveland Guardians 3-1 on Sunday, moving within one win of a World Series appearance and taking a 3-2 lead in the American League Championship Series.

Starter Drew Rasmussen limited Cleveland to one run and four hits over seven innings, recording six strikeouts in the victory.

Rays catcher Liam Hicks praised Rasmussen after the game, saying, "He rises to the occasion and no moment is ever too big for him. I don't think there's anyone we'd rather have on the mound. He's such a hard worker. He has a plan and then he just executes."

The Rays seized early scoring opportunities. Yandy Diaz opened the first inning with a leadoff double, and a subsequent bases‑loaded walk to Jonny DeLuca produced the game’s first run, giving Tampa Bay a 1-0 lead.

In the second inning, Jonathan Aranda drove in a run for Ben Williamson, extending the lead to 2-0.

Cleveland starter Parker Messick was removed after 57 pitches, prompting the Guardians to rely on their bullpen for the remainder of the game.