Brewers Rally Late to Defeat Rays in McClanahan's Return

Milwaukee overcomes early deficit, gets clutch hits and homers to win 6-2

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:34pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange, representing the dynamic action and shifting momentum of a baseball game.A cubist interpretation of the Brewers' dramatic comeback victory, capturing the game's intensity and unpredictability through fragmented geometric forms.Today in Milwaukee

In a thrilling MLB matchup, the Milwaukee Brewers came from behind to defeat the Tampa Bay Rays 6-2. The game marked the return of Rays pitcher Shane McClanahan, who had been sidelined by injuries since 2023. Despite McClanahan's strong start, the Brewers rallied in the 5th inning and added key home runs from Gary Sánchez and Jake Bauers to secure the victory.

Why it matters

This game showcased the Brewers' resilience and depth, as they were able to overcome an early deficit and win despite McClanahan's impressive return. It also highlighted the unpredictability and fine margins in baseball, with a key overturned call in the 5th inning proving crucial to the Brewers' comeback.

The details

McClanahan held the Brewers hitless for the first 4 1/3 innings, but Milwaukee rallied in the 5th. Gary Sánchez drew a leadoff walk, setting up hits from Brandon Lockridge and Joey Ortiz to load the bases. Brice Turang then delivered a clutch single, scoring Sánchez and Lockridge. A replay review overturned the initial rundown call, allowing Ortiz's run to count and giving the Brewers a 3-2 lead. Sánchez and Bauers later homered to extend the Brewers' advantage.

  • The game was played on March 31, 2026.
  • McClanahan had been sidelined by injuries since 2023, missing the entire 2025 season.

The players

Shane McClanahan

A pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays who was making his return to the mound after missing the 2025 season due to injuries, including Tommy John surgery in 2023.

Gary Sánchez

A Milwaukee Brewers player who hit a home run in the game, contributing to the team's comeback victory.

Brandon Lockridge

A Milwaukee Brewers player who had a key hit in the 5th inning rally.

Joey Ortiz

A Milwaukee Brewers player who had a hit in the 5th inning rally, with his run being overturned on replay review to give the Brewers the lead.

Brice Turang

A Milwaukee Brewers player who delivered a clutch single in the 5th inning to score two runs and give the Brewers the lead.

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What they’re saying

“This game just shows the resilience and depth of our team. We never gave up, even when we were down early, and that's what makes this win so special.”

— Brandon Woodruff, Milwaukee Brewers Pitcher

What’s next

The Brewers will look to build on this comeback win as they continue their season, while the Rays will aim to rebound from this tough loss.

The takeaway

This game highlights the unpredictability and fine margins in baseball, where a single play or moment can shift the momentum and decide the outcome. It's these types of thrilling comebacks that make the sport so captivating for fans.