Jake Woodford’s Unique Journey Through the 2026 Season

Relief pitcher Jake Woodford has experienced an uncommon baseball season, playing for multiple teams yet ending up as a potential champion. During the 2026 season, he played for the Milwaukee Brewers and the Tampa Bay Rays, a journey guaranteeing at least one team’s victory in the World Series.

Prior to the start of the season, the Rays traded the 29-year-old pitcher to the Brewers. In Milwaukee’s bullpen, Woodford participated in 16 games, posting a 1-0 record with a 6.94 ERA and securing one save over 23 1/3 innings. As the season progressed, the Brewers designated him for assignment on June 5, followed by his release a few days later.

On July 4, Woodford signed with the Chicago Cubs, appearing in a single game where he allowed three runs over two innings. The Cubs designated him for assignment on July 11 and released him on July 16. Without delay, the Cubs re-signed him to a minor league contract on July 18, and he returned to their major league roster on July 29. During an outing on August 3, he pitched one scoreless inning but was again designated for assignment and released by August 10.

Returning to the Rays, Woodford joined on a minor league contract on August 11. After a month’s stint in the minors, the team added him to their major league roster on September 24. Against the New York Yankees, he allowed three earned runs in 1 1/3 innings, leading to another designation for assignment on September 25 and release on September 29.

“Woodford’s presence on both teams ensures his chance of being associated with a World Series winner in 2026.”

Despite the whirlwind of team changes throughout the year, either the Brewers or the Rays will claim the World Series title. Notably, Woodford’s involvement with both teams during the season makes him a part of the journey to championship victory. However, team management ultimately decides if Woodford receives a championship ring, as there is no mandate to provide such honors to every player on a team’s roster.

The World Series is set to commence on Friday at 8 p.m. ET, when the Brewers host the Rays.