Cash Credits Rays’ Offense After ALCS Game 5 Win; Vogt Seeks Rebound

“But we’ve got a very good offense,” Kevin Cash said after the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Cleveland Guardians 3–1 in ALCS Game 5 on October 18 at Progressive Field.

Asked about moving within a win of the World Series without many home runs, Cash said his hitters found favorable counts against Parker Messick. He credited Yandy Díaz and Jonathan Aranda with following up their previous productive night. Cleveland’s relief matchups made it difficult to build bigger innings, he said.

Cash also cited Rasmussen’s changeup and the defense in his postgame news conference.

“We need to rebound tomorrow,” Stephen Vogt said in his postgame availability. Asked about consecutive losses, he said Cleveland needed more baserunners and runs.

The Rays lead the series 3–2. Game 6 is Monday, October 19, at Tropicana Field, with first pitch scheduled for 6:08 p.m. MDT. Freddy Peralta is Tampa Bay’s listed probable starter. Cleveland must win to force Game 7, scheduled at the same venue and time on Tuesday.

Read the full Rays–Guardians Game 5 recap and box score or visit the final Game 5 Game Center.