What happened: Cleveland Guardians left-hander Parker Messick, a 2026 All-Star selection, will take the mound for Game 5 of the American League Championship Series on Sunday. The announcement follows Cleveland's 7-3 loss in Game 4.

Why it matters: Saturday's defeat left the best-of-seven series knotted at two games apiece, reducing the ALCS to a three-game sprint for the pennant. Manager Stephen Vogt turns to his rookie starter to swing series control before the matchup shifts back on the road.

What to watch: First pitch for Game 5 is scheduled for Sunday at 5:08 p.m. ET, with the winner moving within one victory of the World Series.