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ALCS MVP 'Fastball Freddy' pitches Rays to World Series, where his old team awaits

The Tampa Bay Rays secured their spot in the World Series with a dramatic 7-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in Game 6 of the ALCS, and the hero of their postseason run was right-hander Freddy Peralta. Nicknamed 'Fastball Freddy,' Peralta delivered a dominant performance, pitching 5 1/3 innings of one-run ball while striking out nine batters.

His standout effort earned him ALCS MVP honors, marking the third Rays player to win the award after Matt Garza (2008) and Randy Arozarena (2020). Peralta’s increased fastball velocity played a pivotal role, as he threw 33 pitches at 97-plus mph in Game 6 alone, setting new career highs in both regular-season and postseason play.

The 30-year-old right-hander had previously tossed six scoreless innings in Game 2 and provided crucial relief in Game 4, showcasing his versatility and resilience. Peralta’s journey took a remarkable turn after being traded from the New York Mets to the Rays in August, where he transformed his season, posting a 3.25 ERA in his final 10 regular-season starts compared to a 4.99 ERA with New York.

The Rays now face their former teammate Arozarena, who now plays for the Seattle Mariners, as they prepare to take on the Houston Astros in the World Series starting Friday night.

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