The Tampa Bay Rays are still alive, and they got there the hard way. Milwaukee’s Cooper Pratt hit a go-ahead homer in the 12th inning of Game 4, putting the Brewers three outs from a World Series title. Johnny DeLuca answered with an RBI single to tie it, and Ben Williamson delivered the winning hit with the bases loaded to force a Game 5.
Tonight’s first pitch at Tropicana Field is set for 8 p.m., and the stakes are as simple as they get. A Rays win keeps the season going and sends the series back to Milwaukee for Game 6. A loss means the Brewers celebrate a championship on Tampa soil. DeWayne Staats will throw out the ceremonial first pitch, and the bars around the stadium, Ferg’s included, are bracing for a crowd.
For Gulf Coast fans, from retirees who’ve watched this team all October to the snowbirds just arriving for the season, this is the kind of night that makes baseball worth following. Mark at Ferg’s has already gone on record with a 4-2 Rays prediction and a return trip to Milwaukee. Who are we to argue?
Where are you watching Game 5 tonight, and what’s your prediction?
