It’s down to three games now. In what felt like a must-win game, the Tampa Bay Rays got down to business on Saturday night, beating the Cleveland Guardians 7-3 in Game 4 of the ALCS. It’s best two out of three from here, and they’ll meet in Cleveland on Sunday afternoon for a crucial Game 5. Let’s get into the opening odds for this contest.
Opening Odds for 2026 ALCS Game 5 on DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook favors Tampa Bay at -128 to win Game 5, while Cleveland sits at +107.
Drew Rasmussen steps onto the mound, looking to put the Rays ahead. Tampa’s ace has been absolutely exceptional in these playoffs; he threw eight scoreless innings against the Yankees in the ALDS, then spun six innings of two-run ball against the Guardians in Game 1 of the ALCS. He’s been their most dependable starter all decade, and there’s no pitcher Kevin Cash would rather turn to.
Opposite him will be Parker Messick. Cleveland’s regular-season ace, Messick’s postseason results have been mixed. He pitched only 4.1 innings in a Game 1 loss to the White Sox in the ALDS, surrendering two earned runs. He allowed two more earned runs in Game 4 of that ALDS, but pitched only 2.1 innings as his command completely fell apart. Though the three runs he allowed in ALCS Game 2 were all unearned, he gave up six hits and two walks over five innings while striking out three; not exactly inspiring. Cleveland needs Messick to step it up in Game 5, because manager Stephen Vogt won’t hesitate to pull out a quick hook.
