The Cleveland Guardians won their division and secured a first-round bye in the playoffs.
That is their reward for an incredible regular season in which they exceeded expectations.
Many times, however, the reward can be costly.
We have seen many teams that earned a playoff bye get ousted in the first round of their participation.
Some people say they get cold, others explain that they relax due to the off days.
In any case, the Guardians are making sure to stay ready for what is coming this weekend.
“How are the Guardians handling this 5-day break before the ALDS? @DreKnott says a lot of WORK is happening!”, ESPN Cleveland posted on X.
How are the Guardians handling this 5-day break before the ALDS? @DreKnott says a lot of WORK is happening! pic.twitter.com/128AlQmzRY
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) October 1, 2024
Andre Knott, Bally Sports Cleveland on-field reporter, is close to the team this week as it prepares to face the winner of the Detroit Tigers – Houston Astros series.
The players and the coaching staff are making it a priority to remain active this week.
They don’t want to get cold while they wait.
Other teams remain sharp and competitive by playing postseason baseball against top competition.
While the Guardians can’t exactly replicate that environment, there are ways to remain in shape, both physically and mentally.
Knott states that half the Columbus Clippers (the Guardians’ Triple-A affiliate) is at Progressive Field for the week, working with MLB players.
Players are also hitting, taking grounders, flies, and they will surely do more high-intensity exercises and things over the week.
Internal tournaments or games would be a very good idea for staying in shape and increasing team morale.
Cleveland needs to get creative, because they can’t give away anything in the Division Series.
NEXT: 'Homegrown And Young' Guardians Are The Envy Of The League
