Drew Rasmussen’s path to starting Game 2 of the 2026 World Series has been shaped by major elbow injuries, two draft-day decisions and a pivotal trade between Tampa Bay and Milwaukee. Now a Rays ace, he has emerged as one of baseball’s most effective starters, combining a deep pitch mix with low walk and weak-contact rates.

By the Numbers
  • In 2022, Rasmussen posted a 2.84 ERA and 1.04 WHIP over 28 starts and 146 innings.
  • Across 2025-26, he averaged a 2.71 ERA, 4.5 WAR and 155 ERA+ per season.
  • He led the American League with a 0.91 WHIP in 2026 and made the All-Star team in both seasons.
  • In the 2026 postseason, he allowed one run over seven innings in ALCS Game 5, helping Tampa Bay clinch the pennant.
Yes, But

Rasmussen’s career has been repeatedly interrupted by elbow injuries, limiting him to eight starts in 2023 and four in 2024. His postseason outings have been strong, but not flawless: he gave up two solo homers in a loss to Cleveland in ALCS Game 1.

What's Next

Rasmussen starts Game 2 against the Brewers at American Family Field, facing the team that drafted him and traded him to Tampa Bay in 2021. His performance could help the Rays even the World Series.

Bottom Line

Two elbow surgeries and a winding route through the majors did not derail Rasmussen; they preceded his rise into a frontline starter. Game 2 is the latest test of how far that resilience can carry Tampa Bay.