In a pivotal moment for Cleveland’s postseason run, outfielder Petey Halpin hit a go‑ahead two‑run homer in the fifth inning of Game 3 against the Tampa Bay Rays. The blast, followed by a soaring bat flip, propelled the Guardians to a 3‑2 victory and a 2‑1 lead in the best‑of‑seven AL Championship Series.
Key plays and reactions
Halpin’s home run came after a leadoff chop by Patrick Bailey that Rays starter Griffin Jax failed to field cleanly. On a 2‑2 count, Halpin drove a 95.9 mph sinker 385 feet into right‑center, breaking the tie.
“It’s the second time he’s kind of picked us up in a big spot this year,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “Great swing, fun moment for him.” Halpin described the experience as “the biggest moment of my career,” noting the wind and his high‑energy swing.
Rays outfielder Steven Kwan praised the effort, calling the bat flip “awesome” and noting the wind’s impact on the ball’s flight.
Supporting performances
Gavin Williams struck out nine batters over five innings, allowing two runs on one walk. He now holds a 2‑0 record with a 2.16 ERA and 33 strikeouts in 16 2/3 postseason innings.
José Ramírez contributed two hits, and Nathaniel Lowe added an RBI double in the second inning. The Guardians have won five of their last six playoff games, including a comeback against the Chicago White Sox in the AL Division Series.
Rays’ limited offense
For Tampa Bay, Chandler Simpson’s two‑run triple was the only major offensive highlight. The Rays were held to three hits and struck out 13 times, with Junior Caminero recording four strikeouts.
“Two runs on two hits. You’ve got to be perfect to win games like that,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said.
Looking ahead
Game 4 is slated for Friday, though rain is forecast. The Guardians will aim to extend their series lead, while the Rays hope to rebound and force a return to Cleveland.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
