10 things to know about the Rays before they play for their first World Series title

The Tampa Bay Rays are preparing to face the Milwaukee Brewers in the World Series after eliminating the Cleveland Guardians in a six-game ALCS. Game 1 is set for Friday night in Milwaukee, marking a historic matchup between two franchises seeking their first World Series title. Tampa Bay advanced after sweeping the New York Yankees in the ALDS and finishing an AL-best 98-64 regular season.

Operating with MLB's 28th-ranked payroll at $90 million, manager Kevin Cash's squad relies on elite contact hitting, stellar defense, and speed. The offense is anchored by Yandy Díaz, Jonathan Aranda, and 42-homer slugger Junior Caminero. Despite losing ace Shane McClanahan to forearm tightness, the starting rotation has excelled behind Drew Rasmussen and midseason acquisition Freddy Peralta.