MLB moves ALCS Game 3 to early afternoon as rain approaches Cleveland
Game 3 of the American League Championship Series was shifted to a 1 p.m. EDT start due to forecasted rain, with further inclement weather expected for Games 4 and 5 in Cleveland.
The American League Championship Series between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Cleveland Guardians moved to Cleveland for Games 3, 4 and 5 after the first two contests were played at Tropicana Field. With the series tied 1-1 following Tampa Bay's 3-1 win on Tuesday, Major League Baseball announced Wednesday that Game 3 would begin at 1 p.m. EDT on Thursday, earlier than the originally scheduled 6 p.m. start, because rain is expected to intensify later in the day.
Forecasts for Friday's Game 4 show a high probability of showers throughout the day and into the evening, along with strong west-to-northwest winds that could gust above 40 mph. The wind may affect both hitting and fielding at Progressive Field. Game 5, set for Saturday, is projected to be dry but with significantly lower temperatures, prompting fans to dress warmly.
MLB officials indicated that the schedule adjustments aim to minimize delays while acknowledging that the weather could add an extra challenge for both teams.