Former Blue Jays 14-Win Pitcher in 2026 World Series for Rays

Former Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Steven Matz has reached the 2026 World Series with the Tampa Bay Rays. The Rays clinched their third World Series berth in franchise history after defeating the Cleveland Guardians 7-3 on Monday night to secure a 4-2 series victory. Tampa Bay will face the Milwaukee Brewers as the franchise seeks its first-ever World Series title.

Matz is pursuing his first championship ring after previously reaching the World Series with the New York Mets in 2015. The 35-year-old left-hander posted a 5.49 ERA over 36 appearances during the regular season and has pitched two postseason innings so far. Matz previously won 14 games for Toronto in 2021 before departing in free agency.