Photograph: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Petey Halpin’s two-run homer lifts Guardians past Rays for 2-1 ALCS lead

The Cleveland Guardians secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 3 of the ALCS, snapping a 2-1 series lead with a clutch performance from Petey Halpin. Halpin’s two-run homer in the fifth inning, his first postseason blast, proved decisive after Nathaniel Lowe’s RBI double and José Ramírez’s two hits set the tone for Cleveland.

The Guardians’ bullpen stifled Tampa Bay, retiring 16 of the last 17 batters faced, while Gavin Williams dominated on the mound, striking out nine over five innings and allowing just two runs. Tampa Bay’s offense struggled mightily, with 13 strikeouts in the game and only one baserunner allowed over the final four innings by the Guardians’ relievers.

Game 4 is set for Friday, though rain could disrupt plans, as the Rays look to even the series after falling behind in the best-of-seven clash.

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