Tampa Bay Rays Face Milwaukee Brewers in Midweek Matchup

Rays look to bounce back after recent losses against NL Central foe Brewers

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:39pm

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The Tampa Bay Rays are set to take on the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The game is scheduled to start at 1:40 PM EST. The Rays will be looking to get back on track after a recent string of losses, while the Brewers hope to continue their strong start to the season.

Why it matters

This matchup between the Rays and Brewers features two teams with playoff aspirations this season. The Rays are looking to bounce back and regain their footing in the AL East, while the Brewers are aiming to solidify their position atop the NL Central. The outcome of this game could have implications for the postseason picture down the road.

The details

The Rays will send their ace, Shane McClanahan, to the mound to face off against the Brewers' veteran right-hander, Brandon Woodruff. McClanahan has been the Rays' most consistent starter so far this season, while Woodruff has been a key part of the Brewers' strong pitching staff. Both teams will be looking to their star players to lead the way in this important midweek matchup.

  • The game is scheduled for Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 1:40 PM EST.
  • The Rays and Brewers last met in a three-game series in September 2025, with the Brewers taking two of three games.

The players

Shane McClanahan

The Rays' ace pitcher, who has been their most consistent starter so far this season.

Brandon Woodruff

The veteran right-handed pitcher for the Brewers, who has been a key part of their strong pitching staff.

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What they’re saying

“We know the Brewers are a tough team, but we're confident in our ability to compete with them. It's going to be a hard-fought game, but we're ready for the challenge.”

— Kevin Cash, Manager, Tampa Bay Rays

“This is a big series for us against a talented Rays team. We're looking forward to the challenge and hoping to continue our strong start to the season.”

— Craig Counsell, Manager, Milwaukee Brewers

What’s next

The Rays and Brewers will play a three-game series at American Family Field, with the final two games scheduled for Thursday, April 2 and Friday, April 3.

The takeaway

This midweek matchup between the Rays and Brewers is an important early-season test for both teams as they look to establish themselves as contenders in their respective divisions. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for the playoff race down the line.