Rays Choose Martinez for World Series Game 1

The Tampa Bay Rays will start veteran right-hander Nick Martinez against the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 of the World Series, a surprise choice intended to protect the rest of the rotation rather than simply use the top starter first. Manager Kevin Cash said the plan gives Drew Rasmussen an extra day of rest before a likely Game 2 start, while Freddy Peralta is lined up for Game 3 at home after a heavy postseason workload. Martinez, a first-time All-Star coming off a strong regular season, has already made two postseason starts and could also be positioned to pitch Game 5 if the series continues.