In a bit of a curveball, the Rays will start Nick Martinez, not staff ace Drew Rasmussen, in Game 1 of the World Series against the Brewers.
Rays opt for Martinez to start World Series over ace Rasmussen
Source: ESPN
Original reporting
ESPN: read the full reportFollow this story
Earlier reports and follow-ups on the same developing story.
- Once long shots, Brewers, Rays carry sportsbook liability into World Series
- 'They trust the process': Inside the superpower that carried the Rays to the World Series
- The small-ball World Series? How the Brewers and Rays fit -- and don't fit -- the narrative
- Ticketing Sites Unveil Promo Codes and Prices for Brewers vs. Rays World Series Tickets Online
- Rasmussen or Miz? Caminero or Chourio? Ranking every player in the 2026 World Series
Related stories
ESPN
Two steps too many: Refs confirm LaMelo traveled en route to 3-point make
The association that represents NBA referees confirmed that LaMelo Ball took two steps too many and traveled in a widely seen clip from Wednesday night's win over Miami.
ESPN
Source: Several teams interested in Colts RB Taylor as Indy mulls next moves
As the Colts plot their next moves after firing GM Chris Ballard, a source told ESPN that several teams would be open to a potential trade for Jonathan Taylor.
ESPN
👊 Why NHL fighting is up -- and getting noticed
Through 120 games, there were 34 games with one or more fights, up over the last two seasons (25 and 26).
ESPN
Co-defendant denies Billups gave him info, pleads guilty in NBA gambling case
Eric Earnest pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud Thursday but denied receiving inside information from former NBA player and coach Chauncey Billups.
ESPN
Vogt shuns Mariners rumors, says he'll manage Guardians in '27
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt dispelled speculation about his future, saying he'll return next season to chase an elusive World Series title.
ESPN
Trump criticizes LeBron for not standing still during national anthem
President Donald Trump has accused LeBron James of disrespecting the U.S. after the 76ers star appeared to continue his warmups during the national anthem.