World Series Game 4 live score, updates, highlights from Brewers vs. Rays in 2026 MLB Fall Classic

In a fiercely contested Game 4 of the 2026 World Series, the Tampa Bay Rays avoided a sweep by the Milwaukee Brewers with a thrilling 4-3 victory in extra innings at Tropicana Field. The Rays’ resilience was on full display as they overcame adversity in the 12th inning to prolong the championship series.

The Brewers appeared poised to close out the series after outfielder Cooper Pratt launched a solo home run early in the 12th, giving Milwaukee a 3-2 lead and seemingly putting them one out away from a title. However, the Rays mounted a dramatic comeback in the bottom half of the inning, capitalizing on two critical Milwaukee errors that allowed their offense to ignite.

Johnny DeLuca sparked the rally with a clutch single to center field, tying the game and energizing the home crowd. The Rays continued to apply pressure as five consecutive hitters reached base, a sequence that culminated with a game-winning pinch-hit single by Ben Williamson. His decisive hit sealed the victory and extended the series to at least five games.

Pitching played a pivotal role throughout the contest, with both teams’ staffs executing well to suppress scoring. Milwaukee’s pitching staff, anchored by starters like Dustin May and relievers such as Aaron Ashby, maintained a strong presence. Ashby, in particular, continued a remarkable postseason streak by adding scoreless innings to his dominant run.

The Rays, meanwhile, demonstrated strategic flexibility on the mound, deploying Nick Martinez—originally slated for Game 5—as their starter in Game 4. This adjustment underscored Tampa Bay’s determination to respond aggressively in a must-win situation. Their bullpen and defensive units also contributed, despite the late-game errors that nearly cost them.

Defensively, the Brewers faltered at crucial moments, with two costly misplays by David Hamilton and Joey Ortiz directly leading to Rays runs. These miscues opened the door for Tampa Bay’s otherwise struggling offense to make a decisive impact in the extra frames.

With the series now at 3-1 in favor of Milwaukee, the Rays still hold the rare opportunity to rewrite history. No team has ever forced a Game 6 after trailing 3-0 in the World Series, and the Rays’ victory in Game 4 has kept that possibility alive. The Brewers will turn to their anticipated ace, Jacob Misiorowski, in Game 5, aiming to clinch the championship. Tampa Bay’s pitching rotation for the next game remains uncertain following the earlier use of Martinez in this contest.

The atmosphere at Tropicana Field was electric, amplified by ceremonial moments such as Rays legend Evan Longoria throwing out the first pitch. Fans witnessed not only a gripping baseball battle but also memorable expressions of fandom, including a giant Pokémon card tribute to Jacob Misiorowski, highlighting the cultural intersections present even in high-stakes sports.

As the series shifts toward its potential conclusion, both teams are poised for a decisive Game 5 showdown. Milwaukee seeks to capitalize on their dominant position, while Tampa Bay embraces the underdog role with momentum from their dramatic Game 4 win. The 2026 World Series, marked by clutch performances, strategic pitching shifts, and late-inning heroics, continues to captivate the baseball world with each passing inning.