The Tampa Bay Rays will turn to ace Drew Rasmussen to keep their season alive in Game 5 of the World Series on Wednesday. The team announced the starting pitching decision hours before game time.
Rasmussen Returns to the Mound on Short Rest
This appearance marks Rasmussen’s first start since Game 2, when he surrendered three runs across 3 2/3 innings facing the Milwaukee Brewers. He departed that matchup holding a one-run lead thanks to early run support against Brewers starter Logan Henderson.
The bullpen failed to maintain that advantage, resulting in a loss that put the Rays in an early 2-0 series deficit. Following a victory in Game 4 on Tuesday, the Rays must win the remaining games to capture the 2026 World Series title.
Risks and Past Postseason Performance
Turning to Rasmussen is considered the optimal strategic choice after he emerged as the team’s top starter during the regular season, logging a 2.67 ERA across 170 innings and earning his second consecutive All-Star selection.
However, starting the 31-year-old pitcher on short rest carries considerable risk. The Rays exhausted their relief corps by deploying seven pitchers in Tuesday’s Game 4 win and six pitchers in Monday’s Game 3 loss, placing heavy pressure on Rasmussen to pitch deep into the game.
Despite his struggles in Game 2, Rasmussen posted a strong postseason record prior to that outing, accumulating a 1.29 ERA with 23 strikeouts across 21 innings in his first three playoff starts.
Game 5 takes place on Wednesday with the Rays facing elimination.
