After an eventful playoff run, the Tampa Rays return to the World Series for the first time since 2008. The American League champs will face a desperate Dodgers club who is returning to the WS for the third time in four seasons, still searching for that elusive ring.
Tampa Bay is riding the offensive coattails and historic playoff bat of rookie Randy Arozarena. The Cuban sensation set a new single postseason record for HRs by a rookie (besting Evan Longoria’s six in 2008).
Two more and he passes Barry Bonds (2002), Nelson Cruz (2011) and Carlos Beltran (2004) who all have 8. Randy is also 5 hits away from breaking the Panda’s single postseason hits record of 26 set in 2014. He’s also currently tied for 2nd all-time with 47 total bases.
Dave Roberts and the Dodgers have a lot at stake, but how could the Rays fear any team after disposing of the Yankees and Astros? This series is going seven games and maybe Clayton Kershaw, tonight’s starter, finally has his signature playoff run. Maybe the Rays rookie sensation keeps hammering away at the record books. We will find out starting tonight.
