UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, Jose Ramirez has officially moved into sole possession of second place on the Cleveland Guardians’ all-time RBIs list, achieving this milestone during a crucial 2-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on September 17, 2023.
Ramirez’s pivotal moment came in the sixth inning when he hit a stunning tying triple off pitcher Garrett Cleavinger (1-5), marking his 938th RBI. He now trails only Earl Averill, who holds the record with 1,084 RBIs. This achievement not only cements Ramirez’s legacy but also significantly impacts the wild-card race in the American League.
The Guardians’ win is particularly vital as they now improve to 72-70, overtaking the Rays, who fall to 71-72. The Seattle Mariners currently lead for the third and final wild-card spot at 75-68. The stakes couldn’t be higher as every game counts in this tight playoff race.
During the same inning, Gabriel Arias added an RBI single against Kevin Kelly, bringing David Fry home with a headfirst slide just ahead of a throw from right fielder Josh Lowe.
Cleavinger had entered the game boasting a remarkable 20-inning scoreless streak, the longest active streak in Major League Baseball, but this outing marked the first run he has allowed since July 5.
The game was attended by just 8,155 fans, marking the 16th time this season the Rays failed to sell out their 10,046-capacity home at Steinbrenner Field.
On the mound, Parker Messick, a 24-year-old left-hander making just his fourth major league start, excelled by allowing only one run and eight hits over six innings, striking out four without issuing a walk. Cade Smith sealed the win by striking out the side in the ninth, earning his 11th save in 16 chances.
This victory not only propels the Guardians forward but also raises the stakes for the Rays as they fight to stay in the playoff hunt. As the season approaches its final stretch, every game will be crucial, and fans remain on the edge of their seats.
Stay tuned for further updates as the playoff race intensifies!