After two chaotic games in Milwaukee, the World Series shifts to Tropicana Field for Game 3. The Milwaukee Brewers have taken both games, with Aaron Ashby emerging as the clear two-game MVP. Bradford Doolittle notes Ashby has been dominant throughout the postseason, helping lock down tight leads in both victories. David Schoenfield adds that Ashby's performance raises the idea of a playoff MVP award similar to the NHL's Conn Smythe Trophy.
While Ashby has starred on the mound, William Contreras has stood out for his defense, going 4-for-8 with two RBIs and no strikeouts at the plate. Only three relief pitchers have won MVP — Mariano Rivera, Rollie Fingers, and Larry Sherry — so Contreras has a strong chance if he delivers a big moment.
The Tampa Bay Rays, known for clean baseball, have struggled with atypical defensive mistakes and aggressive baserunning. Jorge Castillo points out that the Rays have run into outs and made uncharacteristic errors. Jeff Passan echoes this, noting the team leaned too heavily into reckless play. Returning to Tropicana Field, where they're tied for the best home record, should help them regain composure.
For Game 3, starters Robert Gasser and Freddy Peralta are expected to deliver a pitchers' duel. Gasser has allowed just one run in two postseason starts, while the Rays struggled against left-handed starters during the regular season.
Source: ESPN MLB · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing