Rays’ Kevin Cash drops firm Game 4 goal for Griffin Jax to extend season

Rays manager Kevin Cash will need starting pitcher Griffin Jax to step up in a must-win Game 4 of the World Series vs. Brewers

The Tampa Bay Rays had opportunities to tie Games 1 and 2 of the 2026 World Series, and could have escaped the fifth inning of Game 3 in just a 2-0 hole. Instead, they are coming off a 10-1 thrashing and now face a seemingly insurmountable deficit against the relentless Milwaukee Brewers. If the American League champions are going to extend their season another night, they must create and seize opportunities early. Their right-handed starting pitcher can take the pressure off a struggling lineup.

That is what Kevin Cash is asking from him, anyway.

“I'd love nothing more than for Griffin Jax to get us 15-plus outs,” the longtime Rays manager told FOX's Tom Verducci before Game 4. “We got to get the offense going. I know a lot has been {said} about the pitching and the bullpen, but if we can get some runs for our guys, maybe we can get them pitching and doing what they do well.”

Kevin Cash sat down with Tom Verducci to talk about the first 3 games of this series and what he wants to see from Griffin Jax tonight

Jax has his assignment. Five innings used to be a requirement for October baseball. The Brewers certainly do not subscribe to this old way of thinking, nor have they needed to, but Tampa's bullpen is unlikely to carry the workload for the remainder of the Fall Classic. Productive starts are essential in any comeback attempt.

The Air Force Academy graduate tallied a 3.53 ERA and 116 strikeouts across 112 1/3 innings in the regular season, but he has been shaky through two playoff outings. Jax has allowed four runs on six hits in six innings of work. He will have to raise his level in this elimination matchup.

Otherwise, there is no point in even entertaining a potential offensive resurgence. No. 22 is tasked with setting the tone on Tuesday night.

The Tampa Bay Rays had opportunities to tie Games 1 and 2 of the 2026 World Series, and could have escaped the fifth inning of Game 3 in just a 2-0 hole. Instead, they are coming off a 10-1 thrashing and now face a seemingly insurmountable deficit against the relentless Milwaukee Brewers.