In a high‑stakes moment for Tampa Bay, right‑hander Drew Rasmussen was called upon to start Game 5 of the World Series on only three days’ rest. The 31‑year‑old veteran took the mound Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Brewers, aiming to keep the series alive after the Rays trailed 2‑0.
Rasmussen’s performance
Rasmussen began the game with a bang, retiring the first four batters he faced. The early dominance was broken when Brewers outfielder Brice Turang doubled to left‑center on a flat cutter. The inning continued with Sal Frelick being hit by a pitch, followed by rookie Cooper Pratt driving a low cutter over second‑baseman Ben Williamson for an RBI single. Those were the only hits Rasmussen surrendered during his four‑inning outing.
Over the course of 48 pitches, Rasmussen struck out four batters and walked none, showcasing the poise that helped him earn a two‑time All‑Star nod. He left the game with a 1‑0 deficit, and reliever Kevin Kelly entered to start the fifth inning, ultimately allowing another run that put the Rays down 2‑0.
Background and recent usage
Rasmussen’s durability has been tested in recent seasons. He underwent three major elbow surgeries, including Tommy John procedures in 2016 and 2017 and an internal‑brace surgery in 2023. Despite those setbacks, he posted a 16‑5 record with a 2.67 ERA during the regular season, including a 9‑3 mark in 15 home starts.
In the 2024 season, the Rays experimented with Rasmussen as an opener and later as a short‑start pitcher on two days’ rest after relief appearances. His willingness to adapt and his experience in high‑pressure situations made him a logical choice for the short‑rest start in Game 5.
Team context
The Brewers also leaned on a pitcher with limited rest, sending Jacob Misiorowski to the mound on four days’ rest after a 12th‑inning lead slipped away in a 4‑3 loss on Tuesday. Milwaukee entered the game with a 3‑1 series lead, hoping to close out the championship.
Tampa Bay’s bullpen was heavily utilized on Tuesday, featuring starter Griffin Jax and relievers Kevin Kelly, Nick Martinez, Bryan Baker, Tyler Wells, Cam Booser, and Ian Seymour. The depth of the Rays’ pitching staff reflects the organization’s emphasis on flexibility and strategic usage of arms.
Injury updates
Third baseman Junior Caminero returned to the lineup for the game, batting third after exiting Tuesday’s contest as a pinch‑runner in the 12th inning. Caminero limped slightly, favoring his left foot, but manager Kevin Cash expressed confidence that the young player would be ready for future action.
“He’s been dealing with some lower‑extremity injuries, but there’s a lot of guys that are nicked up right now playing through a lot,” Cash said. “Know that Cammy will be ready to go today.”
Looking ahead
With the series now at 2‑1 in favor of Milwaukee, the Rays must rally offensively and rely on their depth to stay competitive. Rasmussen’s willingness to pitch on short rest underscores the team’s commitment to fighting for every game, a hallmark of Tampa Bay’s resilient culture.
Fans across the nation will be watching closely as the World Series heads toward a potential decisive Game 6, hoping to see whether the Rays can turn the tide against a formidable Brewers squad.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
