Brewers and Rays set for small-market World Series

Two relatively low-spending clubs each seeking a first Major League Baseball crown, the Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers, meet in a symbolic showdown when the 122nd World Series begins on Friday. The best-of-seven championship matchup between frugal teams flies in the face of claims that only big-spending teams can win the World Series. MLB’s collective bargaining agreement with its players’ union expires on Dec. 1 with many expecting a lockout over owners’ desire for a salary cap and the players’ refusal to consider it.