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MLB·ANALYSIS·October 18, 2026 05:21 PM ET

Jonathan Aranda credits Alejandro Kirk for ALCS Game 4 turnaround

Rays first baseman had opened the series 0-for-10.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 52m1 min read
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After going hitless in his first 10 at-bats of the ALCS, Rays first baseman Jonathan Aranda broke out in Game 4 after ta Via @Sportsnet on X

What happened: Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Jonathan Aranda pushed the Rays ahead 4-1 in Game 4 of the ALCS after receiving batting advice from Toronto Blue Jays catcher and childhood friend Alejandro Kirk, per Shi Davidi.

Why it matters: Off-field counsel from an opposing catcher is an unusual catalyst during a league championship series, rooted in the longtime friendship between Kirk and Aranda. Regaining production at first base gives Tampa Bay timely offensive depth at a pivotal stage of the October series.

By the numbers: Aranda reached 20 home runs in a season for the first time on Sept. 13 and homered in the ALDS opener on Oct. 3 before going hitless across his first 10 ALCS at-bats.

What to watch: Aranda looks to carry the plate adjustment into the remainder of the ALCS as the Rays continue their postseason push.

Sources

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MLBAnalysisTampa Bay RaysToronto Blue JaysAlejandro KirkJonathan Aranda
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