Rays Roundtable: World Series Predictions, Keys to Victory and Brewers Preview

The Tampa Bay Rays prepare for their third-ever World Series and second under manager Kevin Cash, with Game 1 beginning on Friday against the Milwaukee Brewers. 

As they search for their first-ever Fall Classic title, the staff at Ray's Roundtable discuss what needs to be done in order for that to happen. The staff discusses pitching rotation, X factors, opponent previews, predictions, and more. 

Michael Brauner: I like it. After the performance in the ALCS, I trust Martinez to go out there and at least give Tampa 4 or 5 solid innings and give them a chance to grab a victory. It also leaves Rasmussen for Game 2, which is phenomenal if the Rays can find a way to steal Game 1.

Christian Rauh: I love it. It sets up Rasmussen and Peralta for later games when they matter even more. I think Martinez definitely earned the Game 1 nod, and what he has done so far this season doesn't put you by the way whatsoever. He's an all-star for a reason, and I expect him to have a big game to start the Fall Classic for Tampa Bay. 

Michael Brauner: Keep doing their thing. Milwaukee looks like the best team in baseball, but the little things the Rays do to win will translate against anyone. Elite base running, great defense, and plate discipline always translate.

Christian Rauh: The entire lineup has to step up. It can't just be either the bottom of the order or the stars. They all have to align, 1 through 9. 

Michael Brauner: Junior Caminero has not had a bad postseason by any means, but he needs to find another gear if Tampa Bay is going to have a real shot at winning this thing. The Rays need their biggest star to be just that here if they want to win the Fall Classic.

Christian Rauh: Chandler Simpson isn't a player many people discuss, but he's become a glue guy for the Rays this season. He doesn't have a lot of power, but he certainly makes up for that with his speed. He is a small-ball hitter and is not afraid to go for steals, and he is also an excellent defender. He has become one of the X factors for Kevin Cash in this Tampa Bay roster. 

Michael Brauner: William Contreras has been absolutely scorching throughout the playoffs. Tampa needs to neutralize him to have a shot. While Jackson Chourio has been cold, he could heat up at any time as well.

Christian Rauh: Former Tampa Bay Ray Jake Bauers won the NLCS MVP for a reason. His bat is hot right now, and it's something that Tampa Bay's pitching staff is going to have to watch out for. 

Michael Brauner: Everyone seems to be taking Milwaukee. I think Tampa gets it done. Rays in 6!

Christian Rauh: I have the Tampa Bay Rays winning in 6 games. I believe they have the better rotation, and their star players have really started to wake up over the last few games in the championship series. If the Rays' depth can continue to push through and not waste at-bats in the lineup, they should find themselves winning their first-ever World Series title.