The Cleveland Guardians look to move one win away from the World Series when they host the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 4 of the American League Championship Series on Friday night.
Oct 15, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Yandy Diaz (2) hits a double during the fourth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
How to Watch Rays vs Guardians
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Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
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Stream: DIRECTV (try for free)
Cleveland took a 2-1 series lead with a 3-2 victory in Game 3, thanks in large part to Petey Halpin’s go-ahead two-run home run in the fifth inning. Gavin Williams delivered another strong postseason performance, striking out nine batters across five innings before the Guardians’ bullpen finished the job.
Now, Cleveland has an opportunity to take a commanding 3-1 lead in front of its home crowd at Progressive Field, putting the top-seeded Rays on the brink of elimination.
Tampa Bay will turn to Nick Martinez, who went 15-6 with a 3.10 ERA during the regular season. The veteran right-hander was particularly effective against Cleveland this year, throwing 13 scoreless innings across two starts.
Meanwhile, the Guardians are expected to rely on their bullpen, with Shawn Armstrong opening the game. First pitch is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET on TBS and HBO Max, with the Rays looking to even the series before Cleveland can move within striking distance of its first World Series appearance since 2016.
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