Bryan Baker makes MLB playoff history as first pitcher to ever accomplish feat

MLB history was made Wednesday as Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Bryan Baker became the first pitcher to accomplish a remarkable feat during a playoff series.

Bryan Baker of @RaysBaseball is the only MLB pitcher to save every game of a 3+ game sweep in the postseason while not allowing a single hit (since saves became official in 1969). https://t.co/0HvjZc1Sqb

— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) October 8, 2026

Baker made history in Game 3 of the American League Division Series, recording the series-clinching save in the Rays’ 4-3 victory over the New York Yankees. The win sent Tampa Bay to its first American League Championship Series since 2020.

The 31-year-old right-hander became the only pitcher since saves became an official statistic in 1969 to record a save in every game of a three-or-more-game series sweep without allowing a single hit.

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Baker delivers three straight saves

Oct 3, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Bryan Baker (47) delivers a pitch in the ninth inning against the New York Yankees in game one of the ALDS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Pablo Robles-Imagn Images

Baker entered the ninth inning with the Rays protecting a one-run lead and quickly shut the door. He struck out two batters on 17 pitches to earn his third save of the series. He had also recorded saves in Games 1 and 2, making him a key part of Tampa Bay’s successful sweep.

Across the three games, Baker threw 40 pitches and did not surrender a hit, producing one of the most dominant relief performances in postseason history.

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A breakout season continues

Sep 8, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Bryan Baker (47) pitches against the Atlanta Braves during the ninth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Baker’s historic playoff performance comes after an impressive 2026 regular season. He appeared in 65 games for the Rays and posted a 4-2 record with a 1.44 ERA and a 0.91 WHIP. He also recorded 41 saves, establishing himself as one of Tampa Bay’s most reliable bullpen arms.

His 41 saves were a massive jump from his previous career high. Baker had recorded just three saves during the previous season, making his transformation into the Rays’ closer particularly notable.

Now, Baker and Tampa Bay will turn their attention to the next stage of the postseason. The Rays are awaiting the winner of the other American League Division Series between the Cleveland Guardians and Chicago White Sox.

Regardless of who they face, Baker has already left his mark on the 2026 playoffs. His three saves, combined with his hitless performance, have earned him a unique place in MLB postseason history.

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Source: sports.yahoo.com — article syndicated from the publisher’s feed; all rights remain with the original publisher.