The Cleveland Guardians finally gave their fans a chance to relax, cruising to a stress-free 7-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday night. After a string of nail-biters, this one felt like a breath of fresh air.
The scoring started in the second inning when Brayan Rocchio delivered the team's first hit with runners in scoring position, driving in two runs. It was the kind of clutch hit the Guardians have been searching for. Daniel Schneemann followed in the third with a bloop single that brought home two more, a welcome change of luck after several hard-hit balls found gloves in the previous series.
Travis Bazzana put the exclamation point on Cleveland's scoring with a two-run double, giving the bullpen plenty of breathing room. The top of the order—featuring Steven Kwan, Chase DeLauter, and Rhys Hoskins—combined for six walks despite going hitless. Even Jose Ramirez, still searching for his groove, went 0-for-5 but made hard contact. When the bottom of the lineup goes 7-for-17 with four walks, this team is tough to beat.
Joey Cantillo turned in a masterful start, tossing six scoreless innings with five hits, one walk, and four strikeouts. The bullpen had a mixed night—Matt Festa worked a scoreless frame despite some shaky moments, while Colin Holderman and Peyton Pallette each allowed a run. But with a five-run lead, it was all academic.
Now the Guardians look to clinch the series in what appears to be the toughest matchup on paper: Slade Cecconi against Walbert Urena. If the bats stay hot and the pitching holds up, Cleveland might just be finding its stride.
