Next up on the Guardian’s rookie starting pitching merry-go-around is Tanner Bibee, who has not lost in over a month and his ERA has dropped to 3.32. Bibee has also only given up three earned runs in the month of July.
If the Guardians win tonight against the Phillies they will be back to .500 at 49-49. And with a quick look ahead, after this series with Philadelphia, Cleveland’s three of the next four series are against AL Central opponents (vs KC, at CWS, at HOU, vs. CWS). An opportunity to gobble up some wins in the division.
David Fry proved again last night why he has earned more at-bats going 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs and raising his batting average to .290. Need to find more at-bats for Fry.
The Guardians’ bats were quick to make an impact, securing two runs in the opening inning. Although they didn’t manage any home runs, their offense was still strong, amassing 13 hits with four players getting multiple hits. Leading the way was Jose Ramirez, who went 4-5 and scored two runs. Gavin Williams started the game and performed admirably, striking out three batters and allowing only one run over four innings.
Looking ahead, right-handed pitcher Tanner Bibee is scheduled to take the mound for his eighth home start of the season. The 24-year-old has an impressive 5-2 record this season with a solid 3.32 ERA. His performance at home has been particularly outstanding, maintaining a strong 2.31 ERA. Notably, he has given up just one home run at Progressive Field and has held opposing batters to a batting average of .196. However, under night-game conditions, his ERA has risen to 4.08, and he has allowed five home runs, the most in any pitching situation. Nevertheless, he still managed to record 40 strikeouts over 39 innings thrown during night games. In July, Bibee has been on fire, boasting an impressive 1.62 ERA and limiting opponents to a batting average below .200. He has only allowed one homer and struck out 19 batters in 16 innings during the month. However, his walk rate has increased slightly in July, something to keep an eye on if he starts the game less focused.
Cleveland enters this game with an even run differential, placing them 18th in baseball rankings. While they have a solid batting average and are in the top half of the league in this regard, their scoring has been lackluster, ranking in the bottom 10 in runs scored per game. This issue is largely due to their league-worst home run rate and their position near the bottom in extra-base hits. Despite these challenges, their disciplined approach at the plate has contributed to their success in winning games. Interestingly, during night games this season, the majority of their home runs and extra-base hits have been achieved. In July, they’ve maintained their season batting average, but their home run hitting has significantly improved, on pace for their best home run-hitting month with 17 homers in 15 games. The Guardians aim to continue this positive trend, hoping for even better performances in the upcoming matches.
In the series opener, the Phillies struggled to take the lead, finally scoring their first run in the 3rd inning. However, their bats came alive in the 7th inning, with both JT Realmuto and Bryson Stott hitting home runs. Stott had a notable performance with two runs, just like Alec Bohm. Nonetheless, no other Phillies player managed to log multiple hits during the game. Ranger Suarez was given the opportunity to start and pitched for five innings, striking out five batters but allowing four runs.
In the upcoming match, RHP Zack Wheeler is scheduled to make his 10th road start of the season. Currently, he holds a 5-4 record with a 4.04 ERA for the season. His performance on the road has been solid, matching his overall season average, and he boasts a 5-2 away record. Wheeler has been particularly effective away from home, conceding the fewest home runs and striking out 60 batters in 51 innings. However, during night games, his throwing ERA drops to 5.13, and opponents have had more success hitting against him with a .273 batting average. In July, he has a 1-0 record but with an ERA of 5.00. During this period, he has allowed four home runs over three games and 18 innings, which is a concern for Phillies fans. Nevertheless, he has managed to strike out 20 batters and aims to keep the Guardians’ offense in check to avoid giving up more home runs.
Currently, the Phillies have a run differential of +7, ranking them 17th in the league. They have performed well in terms of batting average, placing them in the top 10, but they tend to struggle with hitting for extra bases, often relying on singles. Additionally, they have faced issues leaving runners stranded on base. Their performance on the road and during night games is consistent with their season average, but they have been more successful in hitting home runs during night games. However, in July, their batting average improved, and they are on track for their best month in terms of home runs, hitting 21 long balls over their 15 games. To continue their success, the Phillies need to maintain discipline at the plate and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The Guardians have finally got the bats going in July, particularly in regard to home runs as they’re on pace for their best month of the season. Bibee has been a strong pitcher at home this season, and he’s also continued his hot arm into July. What’s more, he’s limited the home runs which have been a staple for the Phillies given their lack of extra-base hits. Wheeler has been tossing well under the lights, but home runs have also been an issue on the road and this month. Look for the home dog to take care of business in game two.
Our Pick: The GUARDIANS are the choice.
If you're a fan of Cleveland sports and want to stay up-to-date with the latest news, scores, and insights on your favorite teams, signing up for the Cleveland sports newsletter is a no-brainer.
Leave a Reply