Today's top games to watch, best bets, odds: Brewers vs. Rays World Series Game 5, Spurs vs. Jazz and more

The 2026 World Series has set the stage for an intense Game 5 encounter between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. After the Rays shocked the Brewers with a late comeback in Game 4, Milwaukee remains positioned to capture the franchise's inaugural championship, holding a commanding series lead.

Milwaukee was on the verge of making history, just three outs away from sweeping the Rays and securing their first-ever title. However, Tampa Bay's resilience emerged in the 12th inning of Game 4, when Cooper Pratt launched his first postseason home run to momentarily give the Brewers the advantage. The Rays quickly responded, stringing together consecutive hits following a defensive miscue by Milwaukee's third baseman. Pinch hitter Ben Williamson delivered a walk-off single to extend the series, preserving Tampa Bay’s hopes.

As Game 5 approaches on Wednesday night, all eyes will be on Brewers’ ace Jacob Misiorowski, who is tasked with closing out the championship. The 24-year-old right-hander boasts a stellar postseason record, including a 2.70 ERA over three starts and a victory in Game 1, where he allowed only one run in five innings. Misiorowski is a top contender for the National League Cy Young Award, underscoring the Brewers' confidence in his ability to lead them to victory.

Opposing him for the Rays will be Drew Rasmussen, pitching on short rest in an effort to stave off elimination for a second consecutive time. While Milwaukee has the edge on the mound, the Rays' tenacity and recent offensive surge suggest this contest will be fiercely competitive.

The Brewers' offense has been notably powered by rookie shortstop Cooper Pratt, who rebounded from a quiet Game 1 to become a significant contributor. Pratt has recorded multiple extra-base hits and five RBIs over the past three games and was responsible for half of Milwaukee’s hits in Game 4. His emergence adds a dynamic element to Milwaukee’s lineup, making them a formidable adversary.

From a betting perspective, Milwaukee enters as the favorite with current odds favoring their victory. However, given the high-scoring nature of recent games and the extensive use of relievers—seven from Milwaukee and six from Tampa Bay in Game 4—expectations for a low-scoring, pitcher's duel are tempered. Analysts suggest a total runs over 6.5 is likely, reflecting the offensive firepower both teams have demonstrated.

Across the sports landscape, Wednesday's slate also includes a packed NBA schedule, NHL action, and college football matchups, providing ample opportunities for sports enthusiasts. Notably, the NBA features a contest between the San Antonio Spurs and Utah Jazz. Despite the Spurs’ recent defensive trends limiting scoring, Utah’s offensive output has been inconsistent but capable of pushing total points above 234.5, according to projection models.

In the NHL, attention turns to a matchup between the Edmonton Oilers and the Calgary Flames. Edmonton ranks third in league scoring, while Calgary struggles offensively but has shored up its defense during a winning streak. Projections favor a low-scoring game, with expectations that the total goals will fall under 6.5, mirroring Calgary’s recent defensive improvements.

College football also offers intrigue with Jacksonville State facing New Mexico State. Both teams have participated in high-scoring affairs this season, and forecasts predict another offensive showcase. Jacksonville State, riding a four-game winning streak and undefeated in Conference USA play, is expected to maintain control and cover the betting spread.

As the sports world focuses on these critical contests, the brewing tension surrounding the World Series Game 5 encapsulates the drama of postseason baseball. Milwaukee's pursuit of their elusive championship faces one more hurdle against a determined Tampa Bay team refusing to concede. The outcome will hinge on pitching depth, timely hitting, and the ability to handle postseason pressure under the bright lights of Tropicana Field.