cbssports
The Tampa Bay Rays are headed to the World Series for the third time in franchise history, and trade deadline acquisition Freddy Peralta played a pivotal role in getting them there. Peralta was named the American League Championship Series MVP after limiting the Cleveland Guardians to just one run over 5 innings in the series-clinching Game 6.
Across two starts and one relief appearance in the ALCS, the right-hander surrendered only that single run in 12 total innings. "Milwaukee is the team and the city that gave me the opportunity to make my dream," Peralta said, reflecting on facing the Milwaukee Brewers—his former team—in the World Series.
Peralta tossed six shutout innings in Tampa Bay's Game 2 victory, but his most crucial contribution may have come out of the bullpen in Game 4. He entered in the sixth inning with the tying run on base and the go-ahead run at the plate, then retired Steven Kwan and Chase DeLauter to protect a one-run lead in what became a Rays win. Overall, Peralta appeared in three of Tampa Bay's four ALCS victories.
Since being acquired from the New York Mets at the trade deadline, Peralta has recorded a 2.75 ERA over 72 innings with the Rays, combining regular season and postseason. With New York, he had thrown 113 innings with a 4.99 ERA. The Rays adjusted his mechanics, having him pitch from the stretch, throw more changeups, and raise his arm angle—tweaks that fueled his post-trade success.
The 30-year-old Peralta is set to become a free agent after the season, and his performance with Tampa Bay has certainly enhanced his market value. But first, he will focus on helping the Rays defeat his former team in the World Series. Neither the Brewers nor the Rays have ever won a World Series, ensuring a first-time champion in 2026.
Key Analysis
Peralta's transformation after the trade underscores the Rays' knack for unlocking pitcher potential. His adjusted mechanics and increased changeup usage turned him into a reliable October weapon, culminating in ALCS MVP honors. Now, with free agency looming, Peralta has a chance to further boost his stock on the sport's biggest stage—against the very organization that drafted and developed him. The matchup adds a layer of intrigue to a Fall Classic that will crown a new champion regardless of the outcome.
Originally reported by cbssports.