Rays Score on First-Inning Bases-Loaded Walk in ALCS Game 5

Tampa Bay took an early 1-0 lead in the first inning of ALCS Game 5 after drawing a bases-loaded walk against Cleveland.

The Tampa Bay Rays took an early lead in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series on Sunday, scoring the game's first run during the opening inning via a bases-loaded walk. This matchup at Progressive Field follows a 7-3 Rays victory on Saturday that tied the best-of-seven series at two games apiece. The winner of this series will advance to the World Series to face Milwaukee.

Starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen took the mound for Tampa Bay against Cleveland’s Parker Messick. The Rays' batting order featured Yandy Diaz as the designated hitter and Jonathan Aranda at first base, followed by Ryan Vilade, Junior Caminero, and Chandler Simpson. Jonny DeLuca, Liam Hicks, Ben Williamson, and Taylor Walls rounded out the bottom of the Tampa Bay lineup.

Cleveland countered with a lineup led by Steven Kwan in left field and Jose Ramirez at third base. The Guardians' batting order also included Chase DeLauter, Jo Adell, Nathaniel Lowe, Travis Bazzana, Patrick Bailey, Petey Halpin, and Brayan Rocchio. The series is scheduled to return to the road for Game 6 on Monday.