CLEVELAND — The American League Championship Series begins tonight as the Cleveland Guardians prepare for their opening matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays. First pitch is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, marking the start of a series where the Rays enter as the consensus favorite following a strong regular season.
The Guardians advanced to this stage after a competitive American League Division Series. While analysts and staff predictions have largely favored Tampa Bay, the Guardians look to challenge that narrative on the field. The organization has spent the lead-up to the series reviewing their path through the ALDS and finalizing preparations for the upcoming test.
In the National League, the Milwaukee Brewers hold a 1-0 series lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers following a 2-1 victory in Game 1. The two teams are set to continue their series with Game 2 scheduled for 5 p.m. ET today.