The Cleveland Guardians took the field on Sunday with a two-game lead over the Kansas City Royals and the Minnesota Twins.
They had managed to tie their series against the Texas Rangers on Saturday and were looking to take the three-game set on Sunday.
Fortunately for Cleveland, things worked out just fine and the day was perfect for them: they beat the Rangers 4-2 in a tight game, and both the Royals and Twins lost.
That means the Guards extended their lead in the AL Central to three games ahead of each of its competitors, with a big four-game set against the Royals starting on Monday.
“BOTH the Twins and Royals lost today, while the #Guardians held off the Rangers. Cleveland’s lead is back to 3 games in the AL Central. 32 games to play…” Cleveland sports anchor Nick Camino tweeted.
BOTH the Twins and Royals lost today, while the #Guardians held off the Rangers.
Cleveland’s lead is back to 3 games in the AL Central.
32 games to play… pic.twitter.com/apdGdAQOT7
— Nick Camino (@NickCaminoWKYC) August 25, 2024
Jhonkensy Noel was, once again, one of the top performers on offense for Cleveland.
He homered on Saturday and once again on Sunday, setting the pace for another win.
‘Big Christmas’ went 1-for-3 with the homer and two runs scored, taking his season line to a fine .268/.331/.634.
He is now up to 12 home runs in his first 41 games as a major leaguer.
But he wasn’t the only name worthy of a mention on Sunday.
The Guardians offense produced just five hits, but they made them count.
Besides Noel, All-Star designated hitter/utilityman David Fry went yard, his 13th of the season, and Jose Ramirez had an RBI hit.
Matthew Boyd proved his worth once again with a quality start, lowering his ERA to 2.70.
He pitched six solid innings of one run, three hits and one walk, while striking out four.
Cade Smith, Hunter Gaddis and Emmanuel Clase completed the job from the bullpen, with Gaddis allowing a run.
Cleveland will now take on the Royals at home for a doubleheader on Monday.
NEXT: Rookie Slugger Is Carrying The Guardians Offense
