Series Review: Guardians split double-header with the Padres

The Cleveland Guardians split a double-header with the Padres.

The rain came and went, and made the two-game series into a doubleheader between the Cleveland Guardians and the San Diego Padres. The Guards had just their second non-sweep series of the season, splitting with them over the course of Wednesday’s proceedings.

The Guardians’ offense was very much alive, with 18 hits over the two games, and 10 runs. While four runs isn’t a lot, like we saw in the first game, it’s more than enough to expect a win. That comes down to the pitching, which honestly, has been iffy to start the season.

The Guardians are 11-13 and are there partly because of Zach Plesac and Aaron Civale are part of the issue. They are struggling to get out of their starts, and the defense behind them isn’t helping.

That said, the offense is bolstered by four hard-hitting guys in the heart of the order. Steven Kwan, Jose Ramirez, Owen Miller, and Josh Naylor are all hitting over .300, and that’s impressive. Myles Straw is doing alright, just under .300 at .275, but guys like Bobby Bradley, Franmil Reyes, Amed Rosario, and Oscar Mercado are not pulling their weight.

Game 1 – Guardians lose (5-4)

Zach Plesac struggled all game, giving up four earned, and one unearned run throughout the game. Jose Ramirez went hit-less but did get on base twice through his will and patience. Josh Naylor continues to prove his worth, especially coming off a major injury. The Guardians are cutting down on their strikeouts, which will help solve the issues of driving in runs.

Game 2 – Guardians win (6-5)

Franmil Reyes and Austin Hedges both had multi-hit games, and Cal Quantrill did just enough to avoid having the game get away from him.

Series standouts

Josh Naylor

2-4, 2 RBI

Steven Kwan

2-8, 2 RBI, 2 Runs

Owen Miller

1-8, 1 walk, 3 runs

Cal Quantrill

6.0 IP, 3 hits, 3 runs, 5 walks, 7 strikeouts

Sam Hentges

2.0 IP, 0 hits, 0 runs, 0 walks, 3 strikeouts