Tampa Bay Rays took a commanding lead in the AL Championship Series with a 3-1 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in Game 5, thanks to a stellar performance from pitcher Drew Rasmussen. On Sunday, Rasmussen allowed just one run over seven innings, securing his second postseason win and pushing the Rays to a 3-2 series lead.

Rasmussen's dominance on the mound was highlighted by his ability to limit the Guardians’ offense, striking out six and allowing only four hits. Rays manager Kevin Cash praised his performance, noting the effectiveness of his fastball and changeup that kept the Guardians off balance throughout the game.

The Rays scored single runs in each of the first three innings, capitalizing on opportunities created by leadoff hitters:

• Yandy Díaz scored on a bases-loaded walk in the first.
• Jonathan Aranda drove in a run in the second.
• Liam Hicks added another in the third.

Despite a late-game threat from the Guardians, who managed to load the bases in the seventh, the Rays' bullpen held strong, with Bryan Baker converting his fifth save of the postseason.

As the Rays prepare for a potential series-clinching game on Monday at Tropicana Field, they aim for their third AL pennant, while the Guardians face the pressure of needing to win to extend their season. Cleveland has not won an ALCS when trailing 3-2 and seeks their first World Series title since 1948.