The Cleveland Guardians have the best record in the American League and the second-best in baseball at 18-7.
They have won eight of their last 10 games and have looked amazing in the process.
As of Friday afternoon, their +49 run differential is still the best in MLB, so you know they are legit.
They are inflicting a lot of damage on offense while virtually gifting away the opening inning of each game.
That observation, made by analyst Jomboy, tells us how good this offense has been from innings 2-9, but also how bad they have performed in the opening frame.
“Cleveland is winning game after game and basically forfeiting the 1st inning. In 25 games they are slashing .154/.198/.264 in the first inning. They are tied with the Rockies for most 1-2-3 first innings (15). Lulling teams into a false sense of security,” he tweeted.
Cleveland is winning game after game and basically forfeiting the 1st inning. In 25 games they are slashing .154/.198/.264 in the first inning.
They are tied with the Rockies for most 1-2-3 first innings (15).
Lulling teams into a false sense of security.
— Jomboy (@Jomboy_) April 26, 2024
A .198 OBP in the first inning is crazy.
The most shocking thing is that the Guardians have an elite leadoff hitter who is among the league’s leaders in hits in Steven Kwan, and also Jose Ramirez batting in every first inning.
It’s one of those statistical oddities that happen from time to time that will surely correct itself as the games go by.
Still, it’s shocking to say the least.
Despite this situation, the Guardians offense has found ways to wake up in the remaining frames and deliver an acceptable output.
The pitching is the unit doing the heavy lifting so far, yes, but the Guardians’ offense is much-improved in comparison to last year, first-inning struggles or not.
NEXT: Guardians Highlight The Evolution Of Hunter Gaddis
