Reliever-turned-starter Jax excited for first playoff starting assignment

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Griffin Jax will make his first career postseason start in Game 3 of the ALCS against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday at Progressive Field. Jax transitioned from the bullpen into a starter this season and will face Cleveland ace Gavin Williams. The 31-year-old right-hander previously pitched out of the bullpen in the AL Division Series against the New York Yankees.

Rays manager Kevin Cash confirmed that Jax is fully healthy after being struck by a line drive during his final regular-season outing. Jax enters the matchup having registered a 0.90 ERA across his last five appearances, allowing only two runs in 20 innings. Meanwhile, Nick Martinez is expected to start Game 4 for Tampa Bay on Friday.