Rays bring unique MLB history into World Series Game 1

The Tampa Bay Rays are taking a unique piece of MLB history into Game 1 of the 2026 World Series, as their heavy reliance on the changeup has become a defining feature of their postseason run.

According to Codify Baseball, the Rays have thrown at least 38 changeups in five separate postseason games, a feat no other team in MLB history has accomplished. The unusual milestone highlights Tampa Bay’s pitching strategy as it prepares to face the Milwaukee Brewers in the opening game of the Fall Classic on Friday.

Both franchises are searching for their first World Series championship, adding further significance to the matchup.

Rays’ changeup strategy makes history

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Sep 3, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane McClanahan (18) throws during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Tampa Bay led MLB in changeup usage during the 2026 regular season, throwing the pitch more than 20 per cent of the time across the team. That approach has become even more prominent in the playoffs, with approximately 26 per cent of the Rays’ postseason pitches being changeups.

The pitch is designed to disrupt hitters’ timing by appearing similar to a fastball before arriving at a slower speed. When executed effectively, it can force batters to swing too early or make weak contact.

The Rays have used that advantage throughout their postseason campaign, with several pitchers contributing to the strategy. Kevin Kelly, Nick Martinez and Shane McClanahan are among those known for their effective changeups, giving Tampa Bay multiple options to keep opposing hitters off balance.

Their collective success has helped establish the changeup as a central part of the team’s identity heading into the championship series.

Bryan Baker leads Tampa Bay’s bullpen

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Oct 19, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Bryan Baker (47) celebrates defeating the Cleveland Guardians in game six of the ALCS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

Reliever Bryan Baker has been particularly effective with the pitch, relying on his changeup approximately 45 per cent of the time.

Baker has yet to allow a run during the 2026 MLB postseason, recording seven appearances across the American League Division Series and Championship Series. He has also collected five saves, making him an important part of Tampa Bay’s late-game plans.

His ability to generate outs without allowing opponents to score could prove crucial against a Milwaukee lineup looking to make an early statement in the series.

With Game 1 approaching, the Rays will look to continue leaning on their distinctive pitching approach as they pursue the first championship in franchise history.

The Brewers, meanwhile, will aim to find answers against a Tampa Bay staff that has made the changeup a historic weapon throughout October.