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The ALCS schedule now features a crucial Game 4 between the Cleveland Guardians and Tampa Bay Rays on Friday at Progressive Field. Cleveland leads the American League Championship Series, 2-1, after a tense 3-2 victory in Game 3.
The Guardians entered the series as underdogs, but their postseason momentum has returned at the perfect time. They rallied past the Chicago White Sox in the American League Division Series and have carried that confidence into a tightly contested matchup with Tampa Bay.
ALCS Schedule Sets Critical Friday Showdown
First pitch for Game 4 is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET on Friday. Fans can watch the game on TBS and HBO Max, while Spanish-language coverage will be available on UniMas. Spanish-language radio coverage will also air through Univision’s TUDN Radio.
Weather could become an important factor. Rain is expected in the Cleveland area, and both clubs will monitor conditions closely. Game 3 was moved from 6 p.m. to 1 p.m. because of weather concerns, meaning another adjustment remains possible if conditions worsen.
For Cleveland, the home crowd has become a major source of energy. Guardians ace Gavin Williams said the team feeds off the atmosphere at Progressive Field, describing Cleveland as a major sports city where fans become deeply involved in the biggest moments.
Guardians Prepare for a High-Stakes Bullpen Game
Cleveland is expected to use a bullpen game in Game 4 if the matchup is played Friday. Left-hander Joey Cantillo could handle a significant portion of the contest after throwing one scoreless inning in Game 1.
Tanner Bibee and Slade Cecconi are also available to provide bulk innings. Veteran right-hander Shawn Armstrong could serve as an opener, while Daniel Espino remains another possibility after filling that role several times during the regular season and playoffs.
If the game is pushed to Saturday, the Guardians would have more flexibility. Foster Griffin could potentially start on normal rest, giving manager Stephen Vogt additional options while allowing the bullpen to recover.
Nick Martinez Takes the Ball for Tampa Bay
The Rays will turn to right-hander Nick Martinez, who has enjoyed remarkable success against Cleveland this season. Martinez recorded 13 scoreless innings across two regular-season starts against the Guardians, including seven shutout innings in April and six more in July.
Tampa Bay needs that version of Martinez again. The Rays are one loss away from falling behind 3-1 in the series, and another strong pitching performance could restore their momentum before the series shifts back toward Tropicana Field.
The Rays are also positioned to bring back ace Drew Rasmussen for a potential Game 5 start on normal rest. Freddy Peralta could be available for Game 6 if Tampa Bay extends the series.
Projected Lineups for Rays-Guardians Game 4
Cleveland Guardians
- Steven Kwan, left field
- José Ramírez, third base
- Chase DeLauter, right field
- Jo Adell, designated hitter
- Nathaniel Lowe, first base
- Travis Bazzana, second base
- Patrick Bailey, catcher
- Petey Halpin, center field
- Brayan Rocchio, shortstop
Halpin is expected to remain in the lineup after delivering the decisive two-run home run in Game 3. Williams has also been outstanding, becoming the first pitcher in franchise history to record at least nine strikeouts in three consecutive postseason starts.
Tampa Bay Rays
- Yandy Díaz, designated hitter
- Jonathan Aranda, first base
- Junior Caminero, third base
- Victor Mesa Jr., right field
- Chandler Simpson, left field
- Liam Hicks, catcher
- Jonny DeLuca, center field
- Richie Palacios, second base
- Taylor Walls, shortstop
Tampa Bay’s offense must improve, particularly at the top of the order. Díaz, Aranda and Caminero combined to go 1-for-12 in Game 3, while Caminero struck out four times. Chandler Simpson remains a bright spot after producing a key single in Game 2 and a two-run triple in Game 3.
Why Game 4 Could Define the ALCS
The series has been shaped by elite pitching, aggressive baserunning and airtight defense rather than offensive fireworks. Cleveland has a chance to move within one win of the World Series, while Tampa Bay is fighting to avoid a nearly impossible 3-1 deficit.
Neither team reported a new injury entering Game 4. Shane McClanahan is unavailable for the Rays after being shut down because of left forearm tightness, but Junior Caminero and Jonny DeLuca remain healthy after colliding during Game 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is ALCS Game 4?
Game 4 is scheduled for Friday at 6 p.m. ET at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
How can fans watch the game?
The game will be broadcast nationally on TBS and HBO Max. Spanish-language coverage will be available on UniMas.
Who is starting for the Rays?
Right-hander Nick Martinez is scheduled to start for Tampa Bay after throwing 13 scoreless innings against Cleveland during the regular season.
Who will pitch for the Guardians?
Cleveland is expected to use a bullpen game, with Joey Cantillo likely to play a major role and several pitchers available for bulk innings.
What is the series situation?
The Guardians lead the Rays, 2-1. Cleveland can take a 3-1 advantage with a victory, while Tampa Bay needs a win to even the ALCS.
