The New York Yankees face elimination against the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 3 of the 2026 American League Division Series on Wednesday, October 7. With Tampa Bay leading the best-of-five series 2–0, New York needs a victory to keep its postseason alive.
First pitch is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at Yankee Stadium. Here’s what each possible outcome means for the Yankees.
What Happens If the Yankees Win Game 3?
A Yankees win would cut the Rays’ series lead to 2–1 and force Game 4 on Thursday, October 8, at Yankee Stadium.
Winning tonight would keep New York alive, but the Yankees would still face elimination in every remaining game. To advance to the American League Championship Series (ALCS), they must win three consecutive games: Games 3, 4 and 5.
If New York wins both home games, the series would return to Tampa Bay for a decisive Game 5 on Saturday, October 10. See the Yankees–Rays ALDS schedule.
What Happens If the Yankees Lose Game 3?
A loss would eliminate the Yankees from the 2026 MLB playoffs.
Tampa Bay would complete a 3–0 series sweep and advance to the ALCS. There would be no Game 4 or Game 5, and New York’s season would be over. The Rays enter Game 3 with a 2–0 series lead.
Can Yankees vs. Rays Game 3 End in a Tie?
No. An MLB postseason game cannot finish in a tie. If the score is level after nine innings, the teams play extra innings until a winner is determined.
Unlike regular-season games, postseason extra innings do not begin with an automatic runner on second base. Each extra half-inning starts with the bases empty. MLB postseason rules
Yankees Game 3 Playoff Scenarios at a Glance
| Game 3 outcome | Series outcome | What comes next |
|---|---|---|
| Yankees win | Rays lead 2–1 | Game 4 on October 8 in New York |
| Tied after nine innings | Game remains undecided | Extra innings |
| Yankees lose | Rays win series 3–0 | Yankees eliminated; Rays advance to ALCS |
For the Yankees, Game 3 is a must-win: a victory extends the series, while a defeat ends their World Series hopes.