Tampa Bay area native Parker Messick will start Game 2 of the ALCS for the Cleveland Guardians against the Rays on Tuesday, the team announced before Monday's Game 1. The 25-year-old left-hander grew up about 45 minutes from Tropicana Field, where he watched games as a kid. "I came to the only game they won, '08 World Series," Messick said Monday. "I've taken laps around the field with my Little League All-Star banners from winning those tournaments."
Messick has pitched twice in front of hometown friends and family in his young career. Last season, he beat the Rays while giving up just one run over six innings. In late July, he also gave up just one run over 7⅔ innings. "I think I've handled it both times pretty well; both starts have been fine," Messick said. "So, I anticipate this just being another day I get to see family and get to pitch in front of the people that care most about me."
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt added: "He's had two straight very good starts here in front of his family and friends. It's always a special boost when you get to play at home as a player." Messick said his hometown is hosting a watch party. He attended the same high school that produced major leaguers Pete Alonso and Kyle Tucker.
Messick will be opposed by right-hander Freddy Peralta, a midseason acquisition by the Rays. After a slow start with his new team, Peralta went 4-0 with a 0.96 ERA over five starts in September. Veteran Nick Martinez is expected to start Game 3 for the Rays on Thursday. "We're going to continue to announce it a day in advance," Rays manager Kevin Cash said.
Source: ESPN MLB · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing