Nick Martinez to Start Game 1 of World Series for Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays have announced that veteran right-hander Nick Martinez will be the starting pitcher for Game 1 of the World Series at American Family Field on Friday. This decision comes as the team looks to optimize their pitching strategy for the postseason.

Martinez will replace Drew Rasmussen, who has performed well this postseason with a 1.29 ERA across three starts. The change is intended to provide Rasmussen with an additional day of rest following his start in Game 5 of the ALCS against the Cleveland Guardians. This adjustment also sets up the possibility for either Rasmussen or Freddy Peralta to start Game 3 at Tropicana Field, where Peralta has a 2.62 ERA in 20 home appearances this season.

Martinez has demonstrated strong performance on the road, achieving a 2.38 ERA in 16 away starts during the regular season, compared to a 3.90 ERA at home. Coverage of the World Series opener will begin at 7 p.m. ET on FOX.