Nick Martinez Will Start ALDS Game 3 for Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays look to complete a series sweep of the New York Yankees on Wednesday night.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Baseball
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The Tampa Bay Rays have scheduled starting pitcher Nick Martinez to take the mound for Game 3 of the ALDS on October 7, 2026. The team currently holds a 2-0 series lead and hopes to defeat the New York Yankees to advance to the ALCS.
Why it matters
A victory for the Rays would eliminate the Yankees and secure a spot in the next round of the playoffs. Martinez serves as a pivotal piece for the team, given his successful 2026 regular season record.
Martinez finished the regular season with a 3.9 wins above replacement and a 2.38 ERA across 16 road starts. He previously held the Yankees to three runs over 12 innings in two appearances at Yankee Stadium.
The players
Nick Martinez
He is a starting pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays who was a first-time All-Star during the 2026 season.
Tampa Bay Rays
They are a professional baseball team based in St. Petersburg that competes in the American League East.
New York Yankees
They are a professional baseball organization based in the Bronx that is currently trailing in the ALDS series.
The details
Martinez, who joined the organization as a free agent in mid-February 2026, earned his first All-Star selection this season. The Rays are banking on his consistency to finish the series against New York.
Timeline
Mid-February 2026: Nick Martinez joined the Rays as a free agent.
October 7, 2026: Martinez is scheduled to start ALDS Game 3 against the Yankees.
Season Trajectory
This game is a critical juncture in the 2026 American League Division Series as the Rays push for a series sweep. Securing this win would significantly alter the postseason bracket and shift the momentum for the remainder of the playoffs.
The Rays can secure their advancement to the ALCS with a win in this game. Martinez's ability to limit the Yankees to three runs over 12 innings at Yankee Stadium suggests he remains a strong option to close out the series.
The takeaway
The Rays are looking to capitalize on their series momentum by deploying their high-performing starter. Fans and analysts will watch to see if Martinez can maintain his regular-season success on the high-pressure playoff stage.
Further reading
For more on the team's postseason run, visit the Baseball section.
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