# Rays' Diaz Bridges Gap to World Series

> Yandy Diaz, the only Rays player left from 2020 AL Pennant-winning team, leads franchise to World Series.
- Title: Rays' Diaz Bridges Gap to World Series · Tampa Bay Rays On SI
- Summary: Yandy Diaz, the only Rays player left from 2020 AL Pennant-winning team, leads franchise to World Series. Yandy Diaz is the sole remaining player from Tampa…
- Keywords: tampa bay rays, yandy diaz, al pennant, world series, mlb, 2020 pennant, 2026 playoffs, sports, Rays', Diaz, Bridges, Gap
- Source: Tampa Bay Rays On SI — https://si.com/mlb/rays/onsi/rays-have-single-player-bridging-gap-from-last-pennant-winning-team
- Published: 2026-10-22T00:00:02+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: tampa bay rays, yandy diaz, al pennant, world series, mlb, 2020 pennant, 2026 playoffs, sports
## Rays Win AL Pennant
Tampa Bay Rays win American League Pennant for third time in franchise history after beating Cleveland Guardians in six games.
## Rays Overcome Adversity
Rays faced adversity after sweeping Yankees in ALDS and not training once in three games before winning Games 4-6.
## Rays Beat Similar-Style Guardians
Rays beat Guardians despite similar playing styles, with stellar pitching on both teams but Rays producing slightly more runs.
## Diaz: Only 2020 Pennant Player
Designated hitter Yandy Diaz is the only player remaining from Tampa Bay's 2020 AL Pennant-winning team.
## Diaz's World Series Role
Diaz leads Rays to first World Series appearance after missing 2020 season due to no fans.
## Rays Roster Turnover
Rays trade players nearing contract end or becoming too expensive to restart roster with new prospects.
## Diaz Stays Put Despite Rumors
Diaz has never been traded despite trade rumors, even as his 2027 contract rises.
## Diaz Traded to Rays in 2018
Cleveland traded Diaz to Rays in 2018 deal involving Seattle Mariners and Guardians.
## Diaz Aims for First Title
Diaz helps Rays win first World Series after missing opportunity six years ago.
## Key takeaway

Yandy Diaz is the sole remaining player from Tampa Bay Rays' 2020 AL Pennant-winning team as they advance to their first World Series.