2026 World Series Game 1 Preview: Rays vs Brewers

Game 1 of the 2026 World Series begins tonight as the Milwaukee Brewers take on the Tampa Bay Rays in a historic Fall Classic. It's the first World Series since 1980 to feature two franchises still searching for their first championship, setting the stage for a new champion to be crowned. For Milwaukee, 24-year-old flamethrower Jacob Misiorowski, better known as "The Miz," gets the Game 1 start, bringing a fastball that can reach 102–104 mph. Christian Yelich will lead the Brewers' offense, while All-Star catcher William Contreras and young star Jackson Chourio look to make an impact. Brandon Woodruff's potential return from a lengthy injury absence is another major storyline for Milwaukee's pitching staff. On the other side, Tampa Bay will look to Junior Caminero, who crushed 42 home runs during the regular season, to power its lineup. Yandy Díaz brings consistency and run-producing ability, while Drew Rasmussen and Freddy Peralta headline a deep pitching staff that has carried the Rays through the AL playoffs. Tampa Bay will also rely on Chandler Simpson and its aggressive small-ball approach, using speed, baserunning pressure, and contact hitting to challenge Milwaukee. One team will take the first step toward making franchise history tonight.