The battle for the American League Championship requires a minimum of six games as the Tampa Bay Rays evened the series at 2-2. Their 7-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in Game 4 ensured the series will continue.
The Guardians started strong, with Chase DeLauter driving in Steven Kwan for an early lead through an RBI single in the first inning. However, Cleveland’s offense stalled after this initial success.
(Mary DeCicco/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
Tampa Bay responded in the third inning. Yandy Diaz doubled, followed by Jonathan Aranda who brought him home, tying the game. Later, in the sixth inning, Junior Caminero hit an RBI double, putting the Rays ahead 2-1. Although they had more opportunities, they couldn’t extend their lead further.
The seventh inning saw Diaz striking out, but Aranda capitalized by bringing in two runs, giving the Rays a 4-1 advantage. He also scored on a sacrifice fly shortly after.
During the bottom half of that same inning, Cleveland managed to cut the deficit. Despite getting the lead run on base, they could not capitalize fully.
In the ninth, Diaz provided crucial insurance with a two-run homer. His hit nearly got robbed by DeLauter but ultimately sailed over for a home run. Bryan Baker then closed the game with ease, securing the win. He handled the ninth with a double play and a strikeout.
No team has claimed successive victories so far in the series.
Weather disruptions caused a postponement on Friday, rescheduling Games 4 and 5. With no further rest days, Game 6 remains set for Monday. Fans can catch Game 5 on Sunday at 5:08 p.m. ET.

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