Tampa Bay beat Cleveland in Game 5 of the ALCS on Sunday and moved within one win of the World Series. The Rays took control of the series with the victory in Cleveland, putting themselves in position to advance with a Game 6 win at home.
The pivotal matchup tilted Tampa Bay's way. The Rays' pitching held up when it mattered, and their offense generated enough runs to secure the win. Cleveland couldn't answer back. The Guardians now face elimination.
This is the crucial moment in the series. Tampa Bay has momentum heading back to Florida. If the Rays win Game 6, they punch their ticket to the World Series. Cleveland has to force a Game 7 or go home. The Guardians have their backs against the wall.
The Rays' bullpen and lineup executed in a must-win situation. That's what separates teams that advance from teams that don't. Tampa Bay's pitching depth, which has been a strength all season, showed up when the pressure was highest.
Cleveland still has life, but barely. The Guardians need to regroup fast and win at Tropicana Field to stay alive. One loss ends their season.