Facing a 2-0 World Series deficit, Tampa Bay is changing its lineup for Game 3 against Milwaukee left-hander Robert Gasser. Right-handed hitters Ryan Vilade and Nick Fortes will start in place of lefties Jonathan Aranda and Liam Hicks, a matchup-driven move that could bring both regulars off the bench later.

By the Numbers
  • Aranda entered Game 3 with a .788 postseason OPS and a 4-for-7 World Series start.
  • Gasser held left-handed hitters to a .163 average; righties hit .257 against him.
  • Hicks had a .631 postseason OPS, with 8 RBIs—including 4 in the first 2 World Series games.
  • In the regular season, Hicks hit .309 with an .883 OPS against righties, compared with .192 and a .504 OPS against lefties.
Yes, But

The platoon advantage favors the new starters, but Aranda and Hicks have still contributed: Aranda opened the series 4-for-7, and Hicks drove in four runs over the first two games. Tampa Bay says Aranda could have a key bench role, while the Brewers’ bullpen presents another challenge after Gasser.

What's Next

Game 3 is scheduled for Monday at Tropicana Field. The Rays need a win to avoid falling into a 3-0 series hole, and how the matchup unfolds could determine when Cash turns to Aranda and Hicks.

Bottom Line

Tampa Bay is prioritizing favorable matchups in a must-win spot, but its lineup changes carry a trade-off: two productive postseason bats are starting on the bench.