Free MLB Playoff Pick
Guardians +115 over Rays (loss)
Rotation #907 / 8:00 PM ET
Listed Pitchers: Messick/Peralta

The Rays had the ideal setup yesterday, with their ace on the mound against a struggling Cleveland starter, an overworked bullpen, and a team worn down by a long comeback series against the White Sox. Tampa Bay struck first and nearly delivered a knockout punch in the opening inning, but the Rays went cold for the rest of the night. Cleveland gradually clawed back as Tampa Bay failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity. Predicting individual outcomes in a long series is never easy, but the Rays had yesterday’s game on a silver platter and let it slip away. Tonight, Tampa Bay must regroup against Guardians ace Parker Messick and a Cleveland offense riding a wave of confidence. The Rays have struggled against left-handed pitching, and Messick has already shown he can keep their lineup in check this season. Cleveland carries momentum into tonight’s matchup, and Messick presents another difficult challenge for Tampa Bay’s bats. Tampa Bay’s bullpen also struggled down the stretch, which could become another problem if the game stays close into the late innings. Take the Guardians.