Rays bring unique MLB history into World Series Game 1

Story by

Story by
Rays bring unique MLB history into World Series Game 1

Matt Larter · The Big Lead

Fri, Oct 23, 2026 ·

3 min read

Rays' changeup strategy makes history

MLB: ALCS-Tampa Bay Rays at Cleveland Guardians

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Drew Rasmussen (57) reacts against the Cleveland Guardians during the first inning of an ALCS game at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect (Reuters)

Tampa Bay led MLB in changeup usage during the 2026 regular season, throwing the pitch more than 20 percent of the time across the pitching staff. That approach has become even more prominent in the playoffs, with approximately 26 percent of the Rays' postseason pitches being changeups.

The pitch is designed to disrupt hitters' timing by appearing similar to a fastball before arriving at a slower speed. When executed effectively, it can force batters to swing too early or make weak contact.

The Rays have used that advantage throughout their postseason campaign, with several pitchers contributing to the strategy. Drew Rasmussen, Kevin Kelly, Nick Martinez, Freddy Peralta and closer Bryan Baker are among those known for their effective changeups, giving Tampa Bay multiple options to keep opposing hitters off balance.

Their collective success has helped establish the changeup as a central part of the team's identity heading into the championship series.

Bryan Baker leads Tampa Bay's bullpen

Oct 19, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Bryan Baker (47) celebrates defeating the Cleveland Guardians in game six of the ALCS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

Baker has been particularly effective with the pitch, relying on his changeup approximately 45 percent of the time.

Baker has yet to allow a run during the 2026 MLB postseason, recording seven appearances across the American League Division Series and Championship Series. He has also collected five saves, making him an important part of Tampa Bay's late-game plans.

His ability to generate outs without allowing opponents to score could prove crucial against a Milwaukee lineup looking to make an early statement in the series.

With Game 1 approaching, the Rays will look to continue leaning on their distinctive pitching approach as they pursue the first championship in franchise history.

The Brewers, meanwhile, will aim to find answers against a Tampa Bay staff that has made the changeup a historic weapon throughout October.