Game recap
The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Cleveland Guardians 3–1 in Game 5, taking a 3–2 lead in the American League Championship Series and moving within one victory of the World Series.
Tampa Bay delivered when it mattered most, while Cleveland struggled to generate enough offense to defend its home field.
The Guardians now face elimination heading into Game 6.
Series outlook
Series leader: Tampa Bay Rays, 3–2.
Next game: Game 6, Monday, October 19. Venue: Tampa Bay.
Stakes: The Rays can clinch the American League pennant with a win.
Cleveland must win to force Game 7.
The pressure now shifts to Cleveland. Tampa Bay has seized the advantage, but the Guardians still have an opportunity to extend the series with a must-win performance in Game 6.
