“Who are these guys?” Introducing the Rays to a postseason crowd

As the 2026 season comes to a close, the Rays are likely to lead the league in batting average and stolen bases. The team's 18.6 K% entering play on Friday is also the lowest in the game. So if you like old school hitting for contact and moving the runner, this is your team.

Meanwhile the Rays pitching has the 8th lowest ERA, the 4th lowest opponent average, the lowest BB% and lowest WHIP of any staff in baseball.

They are an elite squad that has been overlooked and belittled for the majority of the season despite having the best record in the American League. As early as July, the Rays had nearly a 100% chance of making the playoffs and entering play on Friday, the Rays have spent 131 days in possession of the top spot in the American League East.