The Cleveland Guardians need to get back on track in Game 2 of their AL Wild Card series against the Detroit Tigers.
Of course, there should be no shame in failing to get much going against an elite pitcher like Tarik Skubal in Game 1.
Nevertheless, it seems like manager Stephen Vogt didn’t do his team any favors with his lineup choices for the opener.
With that in mind, analyst Grant Puskar called him out and made some strong suggestions for Game 2.
“C.J. Kayfus at 1B, George Valera in RF. [Kyle] Manzardo DH. Nobody can tell me with a straight face that [Johnathan Rodriguez] and [Jhonkensy Noel] give you a better chance to win than Kayfus and Valera. Nobody,” Puskar wrote on X.
CJ Kayfus at 1B, George Valera in RF. Manzardo DH.
Nobody can tell me with a straight face that JRod and JHonk give you a better chance to win than Kayfus and Valera. Nobody. https://t.co/mDohw0MGx3
— Grant Puskar (@grant_puskar_) September 30, 2025
Perhaps Vogt didn’t want to put that much pressure on the rookies, but they’re clearly better suited for this moment.
The Guardians have more than enough talent to bounce back facing Casey Mize in Game 2, and if Tanner Bibee brings his best stuff, they will avoid being eliminated.
Chase DeLauter reportedly will make his MLB debut, becoming the sixth player in history to make his first appearance in a postseason game.
The key will be to get to Mize early, as the Tigers don’t have a reliable bullpen.
The Guardians also can’t afford to be desperate at the plate or try to force things.
It’s just one loss, and this team has been through worse and more pressing situations all season.
As long as Vogt makes the right moves, which is usually the case, the Guardians should be just fine and can force a deciding Game 3.
NEXT: Stephen Vogt Sends Strong Message After Game 1 Loss
