The Cleveland Guardians’ rotation has suffered a lot in 2024.
Yes, the team has the best record in MLB even despite that situation, but Cleveland has lost multiple arms to injury and/or ineffectiveness.
They lost Shane Bieber early in April, they had to demote Logan Allen and Triston McKenzie at different points because they weren’t performing well, and Gavin Williams started the season on the injured list.
They also lost Xzavion Curry to waivers and Carlos Carrasco is currently on the injured list.
This team has suffered blow after blow when it comes to their pitching depth, and they only brought in one starter, Alex Cobb, ahead of the deadline.
However, they also made a shrewd signing back in June and gave him ample time to get himself in game shape to make an impact in the second half.
His name is Matthew Boyd, and he is an old foe of Cleveland: for years, he was a member of the Detroit Tigers rotation.
He underwent Tommy John surgery last summer, got himself ready to pitch, and was called up to make his season debut on Tuesday.
The results are awfully encouraging for Guardians fans: 5.1 innings with just three hits and a run, no walks, and six strikeouts against a decent Chicago Cubs lineup.
Welcome to Cleveland, Matthew Boyd. 🫡#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/GMhdHMIrMv
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) August 14, 2024
He got 12 swings and misses, his breaking ball was on point, and his command was incredible.
He had 80 pitches: the idea is to keep increasing his pitch count with every start.
Fans are hopeful he can keep up delivering solid starts.
If he can, he could be a true steal.
NEXT: Guardians Relief Ace Gets Another Save And Is Close To Making Franchise History
