MLB1 hour ago1 minute read

Guardians Look to Extend ALCS Lead Against Rays in Game 4

Cleveland holds a 2-1 lead over Tampa Bay in the ALCS as both teams prepare for Game 4.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

The ALCS battle continues

The race for the American League pennant is down to two teams. Milwaukee already secured a place in the World Series by sweeping the reigning champion Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series. Now, only the Cleveland Guardians and Tampa Bay Rays remain.

Cleveland took a 2-1 edge in the series with a win in Game 3 in front of its home crowd at Progressive Field. The Guardians want to expand that lead. Tampa Bay aims to even the series again.

Pitching matchups and lineups set

Game 4 begins at 8 p.m. Eastern. Nick Martinez takes the mound for Tampa Bay, while Shawn Armstrong starts for Cleveland.

The Rays start Yandy Diaz at designated hitter, Jonathan Aranda at first base, and Chandler Simpson in left field. Junior Caminero plays third base, Liam Hicks catches, and Victor Mesa Jr. plays right field. Jonny DeLuca plays center field, Richie Palacios starts at second base, and Taylor Walls plays shortstop.

The Guardians start Steven Kwan in left field, Jose Ramirez at third base, and Chase DeLauter in right field. Jo Adell serves as designated hitter, Nathaniel Lowe plays first base, and Travis Bazzana starts at second base. Patrick Bailey catches, Petey Halpin plays center field, and Brayan Rocchio plays shortstop.

What it means for the next game

Tampa Bay Rays at Cleveland Guardians (MLB, Sun, 18 Oct): Cleveland Guardians win 48%, Tampa Bay Rays win 52%; projected score Cleveland Guardians 4, Tampa Bay Rays 4. Our safest pick: Guardians +3.5.

Tampa Bay Rays at Cleveland Guardians (MLB, Sun, 18 Oct): Cleveland Guardians win 47%, Tampa Bay Rays win 53%; projected score Cleveland Guardians 4, Tampa Bay Rays 4. Our safest pick: Under 10.5 runs.