What happened: Joel Sherman said Tampa Bay has reached the point where the manager lacks a trusted bullpen option. He tied the assessment to the Rays' struggles to start the World Series. The Milwaukee Brewers lead the series 2-0 with the next game not yet started.

Why it matters: Relief roles determine how Tampa Bay handles the middle and late innings. Unsettled assignments can force shorter starts and longer outings from available arms.

What to watch: Tampa Bay's next scheduled World Series game will test the bullpen order. Late-game assignments will indicate whether a pecking order emerges.