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Rainout gives Rays options, but they're sticking with Martinez for G4

The Tampa Bay Rays have decided to maintain their original pitching schedule despite the rain delay that pushed American League Championship Series Game 4 from Friday to Saturday night. Right-hander Nick Martinez will take the mound as planned, a choice manager Kevin Cash defended by noting the team will proceed day-to-day from that point.

Martinez had previously delivered 13 scoreless innings against Cleveland in regular-season play and posted a 2.38 road ERA, which ranked fourth in the American League. His presence on the mound is viewed as a stabilizing force, with the club going 23-9 in his starts this season.

This decision allows ace Drew Rasmussen to start Game 5 on Sunday with an extra day of rest, aligning with his regular-season routine where he started on five days' rest in 23 of his 30 appearances. If the series extends to Monday, right-hander Freddy Peralta is positioned to pitch Game 6.

The Cleveland Guardians also kept their plans unchanged, with Shawn Armstrong set to open the game. The rescheduled matchup is set for 8 p.m.

ET on Saturday.

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