Tampa Bay Rays to Face Milwaukee Brewers in 2026 World Series

The stage is set for the 2026 World Series featuring the Tampa Bay Rays against the Milwaukee Brewers. The Rays secured their spot by defeating the Cleveland Guardians, 7-3, in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS). This victory marks their win of the American League pennant.

The Brewers, having surprisingly swept the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series (NLCS), were eager to discover their World Series opponent. They watched the ALCS closely, anticipating the outcome.

Junior Caminero of the Tampa Bay Rays celebrates after a two-run home run in the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians during Game 6 of the ALCS at Tropicana Field on Oct. 19, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (Getty Images)

Tampa Bay delivered a pivotal victory in Game 5 while away, maintaining their composure upon returning home to Tropicana Field. With a sold-out crowd, the Rays harnessed their momentum to claim the win.

Richie Palacios took the lead for the Rays in the bottom of the second inning, achieving a crucial two-out double to initiate a 2-0 score. Later, Junior Caminero amplified their lead to 5-1 in the seventh inning with a series-sealing home run. Caminero turned an inside pitch, thrilled as the ball hit off the foul pole, sparking a celebration throughout the stadium.

Cleveland fought back, scoring two runs the following inning, making the score 5-3. Nonetheless, the Rays held firm. Yandy Diaz added insurance with a 416-foot home run over the left field wall, restoring their four-run advantage.

In the final inning, Bryan Baker, the Rays’ reliable closer, took over to secure the win. With precise execution, he forced groundouts from Steven Kwan and Jose Ramirez, followed by a pop-out from Chase DeLauter, confirming Tampa Bay’s World Series entrance.

The Rays’ last appearance in the World Series was during the 2020 COVID-19-shortened season. The Brewers await the series after a 44-year hiatus since their last entry. These teams vie for their first World Series title.

Richie Palacios of the Tampa Bay Rays reacts after a two-run RBI double during the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 6 of the ALCS at Tropicana Field on Oct. 19, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (Getty Images)

Scott Thompson, reporting for Fox News Digital, provides comprehensive sports coverage in Outkick, now available on the Fox News App.