Rays Choose Martinez for World Series Opener, Giving Rasmussen Extra Rest

The Rays will start Nick Martinez in Game 1 of the World Series against the Brewers, using the veteran right-hander to give Drew Rasmussen an additional day of rest. Martinez, 36, is scheduled to face Jacob Misiorowski at American Family Field on Friday, October 23, at 8 p.m. ET. That is 9 a.m. Saturday in Japan. Rasmussen is lined up for Game 2 on five days’ rest, while Freddy Peralta will start Game 3 at Tropicana Field. Manager Kevin Cash said providing extra rest for Rasmussen was a priority. Martinez earned his first All-Star selection this season, posting a 3.10 ERA over 180 innings in 31 starts. He has remained dependable in October, allowing three runs across nine innings in two starts. His regular-season road ERA was 2.38, compared with 3.90 at home. The arrangement also gives Tampa Bay the option of using Peralta and Griffin Jax in relief during the first two games. Peralta made two starts and one relief appearance while winning ALCS MVP honors. He has posted a 1.45 ERA in seven starts at Tropicana Field since joining the Rays at the Trade Deadline. Martinez already has a successful outing against Milwaukee at the same ballpark this year. On March 30, he allowed two runs over six innings in a Tampa Bay victory. Even so, he expects a demanding matchup against a Brewers lineup that extends at-bats and competes on every pitch. The Rays are entrusting him with the opening assignment in their pursuit of a first championship.