Series Review: The Cleveland Guardians defeat the Tampa Bay Rays in potential playoff preview

The Cleveland Guardians held off the Tampa Bay Rays.

The Cleveland Guardians proved that they can handle the Tampa Bay Rays ahead of what could possibly be their first-round opponents in the playoffs. While the prevailing storylines heading into the series were Corey Kluber’s return to Cleveland and how would the team be managed now that they clinched a playoff spot, the idea that the Rays could end up being the Guardians’ first-round opponent still exists.

Heading into Thursday morning, the Guardians were scheduled to face off with the Seattle Mariners in the first round of the playoffs but depending on how the rest of the season plays out, the Guards could very easily end up facing the Rays yet again.

Between the two teams, there isn’t an “easier” matchup between them. The Rays are one of the better franchises in baseball, despite their lackluster support from their fanbase in Tampa Bay. The Mariners are on the other end of the spectrum, being one of the most maligned franchises. That said, both are going to be a tough out.

The Guardians now start a five-game series with the Kansas City Royales to close out the regular season.

Cleveland Guardians vs. Tampa Bay Ray series review

Game 1 – Rays Win (6-5)

Corey Kluber has found some of his youth this season and it’s good to see, we just would prefer if he could pitch well against teams not named “Guardians”. The Guards were able to mount another comeback but this one fell short of completion, unable to muster three runs in the 11th to get the win.

Game 2 – Guardians Win (2-1)

The first game ended in the 11th, and the second game ended in the 10th. The Guards sure like playing the Rays. Amed Rosario played hero ball to get the win, knocking in Oscar Gonzalez for the game-winning hit.

Game 3 – Guardians Win (2-1)

Cal Quantrill out-dueled Jeffrey Springs, with both pitchers going 6 innings. The Guards were bailed out by two of their top rookies, Steven Kwan and Oscar Gonzalez, both of whom had RBIs on the day.

Series Standouts

Steven Kwan

6-15, 3 RBI, 3 Runs, 1 Walk

Enyel De Los Santos

2.0 IP 5 Ks (One, 9 pitch immaculate inning)

Emmanuel Clase

2.0 IP, 3 Ks

James Karinchak

2.0 IP, 3 Ks