The Tampa Bay Rays are headed to the World Series after a decisive 7-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series on Monday night at Tropicana Field.
Rays power past Guardians to clinch pennant
Junior Caminero and Yandy Diaz each smashed two-run home runs, while starter Freddy Peralta delivered a strong outing of 5 1/3 innings. Peralta limited Cleveland to one run and later earned ALCS MVP honors for his dominant series performance.
The Rays never trailed and closed out the series 4-2 to capture their third American League pennant in franchise history and first since 2020.
Diaz, who had boldly predicted a series-ending win the day before, delivered on his promise with a clutch eighth-inning blast that sealed the outcome.
Caminero’s first career postseason homer earlier in the game provided key insurance. Closer Bryan Baker finished the ninth to send the home crowd into celebration.
Historic matchup awaits against Brewers
The Rays will now face the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2026 World Series, which begins Friday night at American Family Field in Milwaukee. Both clubs are seeking their first World Series championship in franchise history – the first such matchup since the 1980 Phillies-Royals series.
The Brewers advanced by sweeping the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series.
Tampa Bay previously reached the Fall Classic in 2008 and 2020 but fell short both times. This year’s series guarantees a first-time champion. Game 1 is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Friday, with the best-of-seven series continuing through early November if necessary.
Rays manager Kevin Cash and the team celebrated the long-awaited return, with players emphasizing they still have “one more bite” left in the post season.
Fans in St. Petersburg waved towels and rang cowbells as the Rays secured their place among baseball’s final two.
