The Tampa Bay Rays held a narrow lead over the Milwaukee Brewers in a tense Game 2 of the World Series at American Family Field on Saturday night, after recovering from their dramatic defeat in the opening game.
Tampa Bay made a spectacular start, scoring four runs in the first inning to move 4-0 ahead. Chandler Simpson and Junior Caminero produced run-scoring hits before catcher Liam Hicks launched the first home run of the series, a two-run shot to right-centre field.
The early onslaught came after a throwing error by Brewers shortstop Cooper Pratt allowed Yandy Díaz to reach base. It was the first time Milwaukee starter Logan Henderson had conceded more than three runs in a regular-season Major League start.
Milwaukee gradually reduced the deficit, scoring in the fourth inning before adding another run as the game tightened. The Brewers then threatened again after Brice Turang walked in the fifth, but Tampa Bay escaped without surrendering the lead.
Rays starter Drew Rasmussen was replaced by Manuel Rodríguez in the fourth inning, while Milwaukee turned to José Romero after Henderson’s outing ended. Both bullpens were tested as the teams repeatedly left runners stranded in scoring position.
Jackson Chourio kept the Brewers within touching distance with a crucial defensive play in the sixth inning, throwing out a Tampa Bay runner at home plate. The Rays remained in front, but Milwaukee’s response ensured the contest was still finely balanced.
The Brewers began the night with a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series after edging Tampa Bay 3-2 in Friday’s opener. The Rays were seeking to level the contest before the series moved to Tampa Bay for Game 3 on Monday.
