Rays’ winning formula on full display in Game 5

The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Cleveland Guardians 3-1 in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series on Sunday evening at Progressive Field. The victory gives manager Kevin Cash's team a 3-2 series lead, placing the Rays one win away from clinching a spot in the World Series as the matchup heads back to Tampa Bay for Game 6.

Tampa Bay generated early offense by scoring single runs across the first three innings on a bases-loaded walk by Jonny DeLuca and RBI singles from Jonathan Aranda and Liam Hicks. Starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen tossed seven innings of one-run ball, while relievers Cam Booser, Tyler Wells, and closer Bryan Baker sealed the win with stellar defensive support from Ben Williamson and Taylor Walls.