Game 4 of the American League Championship Series between the Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Guardians was called off due to rain on Friday evening. Despite hopes for a three-hour break in the weather, the persistent showers prevented the game from taking place.
According to Rays manager Kevin Cash, both Major League Baseball and the teams did their best to proceed with the game but had to make the decision as the weather conditions did not improve. The playoff series will resume on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET, followed by Game 5 on Sunday at 5 p.m. at Progressive Field and, if needed, Game 6 on Monday at 8 p.m. in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt expressed understanding of MLB’s decision to wait out the weather for the important game, emphasizing the need to adhere to the schedule. This marks the first postponement of an ALCS game since 2019.
The Guardians currently lead the series 2-1 after a 3-2 victory in Game 3, secured by Petey Halpin’s two-run home run. The teams will maintain their Game 4 starting pitchers from the original schedule, with Cleveland opting for a bullpen game led by Shawn Armstrong and Tampa Bay pitching Nick Martinez.
The possibility of playing the remaining series games consecutively could lead to a potential Game 7 on Tuesday, offering an advantage to the Milwaukee Brewers, who secured a spot in the World Series after sweeping the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL Championship Series.
Vogt highlighted the team’s focus on the upcoming games, emphasizing the opportunity to advance and secure wins.
