Halpin’s homer lifts Guardians to 3–2 win and 2

Petey Halpin hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning Thursday as Cleveland beat Tampa Bay 3–2 at Progressive Field, taking a 2–1 lead in the American League Championship Series.

The Guardians are two wins from the World Series. The Rays will have to win again in Cleveland to bring the best-of-seven series back to Tampa Bay.

One swing changes Game 3

Halpin connected against Griffin Jax after Patrick Bailey reached on an infield single. The 385-foot drive was Halpin’s first postseason home run, Reuters reported. Jax allowed all three Cleveland runs in four-plus innings.

Gavin Williams struck out nine in five innings, allowing two hits and one walk. Chandler Simpson’s two-run triple accounted for Tampa Bay’s scoring.

Cleveland closes the door

Williams’ fastball averaged 97.6 mph, and Tampa Bay missed on nine of its 21 swings at his sweeper, according to Sportsnet’s breakdown. His ability to miss bats gave Cleveland room to protect a narrow lead without a large offensive outburst.

The Guardians retired 16 of the final 17 Rays batters. Cade Smith entered with a runner on third in the eighth, struck out Yandy Díaz to end the threat and followed with a perfect ninth, The Associated Press reported. The bullpen allowed one baserunner across its four innings.

When is Game 4?

Game 4 is Friday, October 16. MLB lists a 6 p.m. Eastern start, moving to 8 p.m. if Milwaukee eliminates Los Angeles on Thursday. Check the official postseason schedule before setting your viewing time.