The Guardians' championship drought hits 78 years after Tampa Bay eliminated them in six games to capture the ALCS. Cleveland got within striking distance of the World Series but couldn't close it out, falling short once again in their push for a title. The Rays advance to face the winner of the other League Championship Series, while the Guardians head home empty-handed. This loss extends one of baseball's longest active title droughts. The Guardians have built competitive rosters in recent years but keep stumbling at the ALCS stage, the final hurdle before October's biggest stage.