The Cleveland Guardians game against the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday got off to a late start due to a weather-related delay.
Those who waited were rewarded with a truly thrilling victory that included a little bit of everything.
Finally, a Guardians starter provided some length, as Tanner Bibee tossed seven one-run frames to give the bullpen some rest.
The highlight of the day, however, was the long ball.
Bo Naylor put Cleveland ahead in the third inning with a solo blast, then Ty France evened the score with one of his own in the fifth.
Everything was ready for the hero of the night, Kyle Manzardo, to come through with this walk-off homer in the bottom of the ninth:
Kyle ManzardOVER #walkoff pic.twitter.com/1ycINvgcR3
— MLB (@MLB) April 30, 2025
It was the first walk-off long ball of his short, but already very promising career.
You could see how pumped he was as he rounded the bases, and how happy his teammates were when they welcomed him at home plate.
The Guardians hope it’s the first of many homers of this kind for Manzardo.
He has truly been a breath of fresh air for Cleveland’s lineup this year.
They needed a reliable power threat to support Jose Ramirez and replace the departing Josh Naylor, and they have gotten one in Manzardo.
It was his eighth round-tripper of the season, and his slash line is now .227/.324/.557.
With a .881 OPS and 19 RBI, he has been a consistent force in the middle of the lineup all year long.
Manzardo is breaking out right before our eyes, and he is showing he has flair for the dramatic, too.
NEXT: Analyst Explains What He Wants To See From Guardians' Rotation
