Rays choose surprise starter for Game 1 of World Series

The Tampa Bay Rays‘ best pitcher this postseason has been Drew Rasmussen, who has a 1.29 ERA in three starts.

Although it was widely expected that Rasmussen would take the ball in Game 1 of the World Series on Friday in Milwaukee, the prestigious assignment will instead go to right-hander Nick Martinez.

The decision, reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic on Thursday, Oct. 22, allows Rasmussen to start Games 2 and 6 of the best-of-seven series. Martinez might also start Game 5, and Freddy Peralta Games 3 and 7.

MORE: Rays minor league pitcher suddenly retires amid World Series run

Jacob Misiorowski will start Game 1 on Friday for the Brewers at American Family Field in Milwaukee.

More to come on this story.

—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter—