Jacob Misiorowski, Brewers outmuscle Rays in 2026 World Series opener

Oct. 23 (UPI) — A 103.5-mph fastball slid off Jacob Misiorowski’s fingertips to start the first World Series game held in Milwaukee in 44 years and the Milwaukee Brewers ace never relented in a 3-2 triumph over the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday in the 2026 title series opener.

“It was amazing,” Misiorowski said on the Fox broadcast. “Just to have this city behind me means the world. We couldn’t ask for anything better.”

MLB’s fastest-throwing starter reached triple digits on more than three dozen of his offerings. He allowed just four hits and one run over five innings to help the Brewers snatch a 1-0 series lead at American Family Field.

“Not perfect, but good enough to get a win,” Misiorowski said.

The Brewers, who earned their first World Series win in Milwaukee since Oct. 17, 1982, will host the Rays in Game 2 of the best-of-seven game series Saturday in Milwaukee.

“It feels great,” said Brewers designated hitter Christian Yelich. “Anytime you win a playoff game it feels awesome, especially a World Series game. … We’ve still got a ways to go, but it’s nice to get that first one.”

Early offense aided Misiorowski’s muscular Game 1 gem. The Brewers broke through off a Yelich RBI triple in the bottom of the first. Catcher William Contreras hit the next pitch through the infield to plate Yelich for a 2-0 lead.

The Rays attempted to neutralize Misiorowski’s fastballs with short swings, but didn’t find home until catcher Liam Hicks scored first baseman Jonathan Aranda on an RBI groundout in the fourth. They wouldn’t score again until the ninth.

Left fielder Jackson Chourio added Brewers insurance with an RBI single in the seventh. The Brewers bullpen — comprised off Abner Uribe, Aaron Ashby and Trevor Megill — surrendered just three hits and one run over the final four innings.

The Rays threatened with a desperate effort in the ninth, loading the bases against Megill, but only squeezed one run out of the rally. Megill secured the victory with a devastating knuckle curve for a game-ending strikeout of center fielder Jonny DeLuca.

Contreras went 2 for 3 for the Brewers. Chourio went 2 for 4. Rays starter Nick Martinez allowed five hits and two runs over five innings. Aranda went 3 for 3 in the loss. Left fielder Chandler Simpson swatted two hits for the Rays.

First pitch for Game 2 is scheduled for 8 p.m. EDT Saturday at American Family Field. Game 3 will be held at 8 p.m. Monday in St. Petersburg.