The Cleveland Guardians earned a competitive 3-2 win over the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 3 of the American League Championship Series on Thursday. Cleveland now holds a 2-1 series lead. Petey Halpin's clutch two-run home run in the 5th inning gave the Guards a lead. Meanwhile, Gavin Williams turned in another good start across five innings of work, allowing just two runs along the way. After the ball game, Williams gave the fans in Cleveland a shoutout, via TNT Sports US.

“Cleveland is electric,” Williams said. “I love this place. They show out, 30 degree weather, 100 degree weather, they're always gonna be here. They know how to support us.”

Progressive Field had no shortage of energy once again on Thursday despite first pitch being moved from 6 PM ET to 1 PM ET due to expected poor weather later in the day. Fans still showed up and helped the Guards get the job done with their energy.

Williams, in addition to containing the Rays over five innings, continued his strikeout rampage on the mound. He recorded nine strikeouts while walking only one hitter. The right-hander was efficient despite all of the strikeouts, as he had thrown only 70 pitches when he was removed from the contest.

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Cleveland's bullpen shut the door following his departure. Cade Smith's performance especially stood out. He entered the game in the 8th inning with two outs and stranded a runner at third base. Smith then turned in a perfect ninth inning to seal the win and a four-out save.

There is still work to do, but the Guardians now have a 2-1 lead in the ALCS. Game 4 will be played on Friday.