The Cleveland Guardians won their first three games of the season against the Oakland Athletics.
However, they have dropped their last two: one against the A’s, and the opener against the Seattle Mariners.
During that span of games, the starting rotation has labored a bit without the injured Gavin Williams.
Shane Bieber was brilliant on Opening Day, but Logan Allen, Carlos Carrasco, and Tanner Bibee all surrendered three runs in their respective outings: the first two over five innings, and Bibee in just four.
Then, on Monday, Triston McKenzie struggled to the tune of allowing five runs (four earned) in 3.1 frames.
Bieber will take the hill on the next game, but the rest of the staff needs to put it all together and find some length because the bullpen will be very tired in no time.
Meanwhile, Williams is still on the shelf with an elbow injury he suffered during spring training.
Guardians insider Paul Hoynes offered a new update on his recovery.
“He’s supposed to throw a bullpen session while the team is in Seattle,” he replied to a fan asking for an update on Williams.
He's supposed to throw a bullpen session while the team is in Seattle. https://t.co/6B5O0dvg3B
— paul hoynes (@hoynsie) April 2, 2024
It’s unclear if Williams already had the throwing session or if he will complete it in the upcoming days, but the fact he is throwing bullpens represents a positive development.
His absence was never expected to be a long-term one, but he still needs to complete some key steps: live batting practice, a few rehab games in the minors, and then a return to the MLB rotation.
Whenever it’s time for him to come back, he will represent a nice addition to the group.
He posted a 3.29 ERA last year in 82 innings, and is one of the most promising arms in the American League.
NEXT: Guardians Reliever Is Showing Surprising Velocity So Far
