The Cleveland Guardians failed to make the postseason or even play .500 ball in 2023.
Against all odds, they not only rebounded in 2024 if we look at the big picture, but they have exceeded expectations and hold one of the best records in the American League at the moment.
However, they aren’t currently in a great situation, having played mediocre ball (17-20 record) in the second half and watching how their division lead, which was once as large as nine games in late June, is now down to just one game after they were swept in Monday’s doubleheader against a direct foe, the Kansas City Royals.
The baseball universe is divided into those who think the Guardians star power and excellent bullpen will help them regain their form and maintain their lead in the Central; and those who believe the Royals or the Minnesota Twins will eventually leapfrog them.
Former general manager and current MLB Network analyst Dan O’Dowd is firmly in the second camp.
“Can the Guardians hold on to the AL Central? Dan O’Dowd: “No, I don’t think they can.” #MLBNow discusses the close divisional race following the Royals’ doubleheader sweep of Cleveland,” MLB Now tweeted.
Can the Guardians hold on to the AL Central?
Dan O'Dowd: "No, I don't think they can."#MLBNow discusses the close divisional race following the Royals' doubleheader sweep of Cleveland. pic.twitter.com/l7alN58sVt
— MLB Now (@MLBNow) August 27, 2024
“I’ve felt that their offense (Guardians) played above their ability and now it’s settling a little bit; and there is something magical going on with Kansas City,” he said.
It’s true that the Guardians put themselves at a competitive disadvantage by not doing more to fix their rotation issues, only bringing in Alex Cobb.
However, injuries have also played a key role in the unit’s depth being razor-thin.
Cleveland needs Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, Ben Lively and Matthew Boyd to be at the top of their game, and they also require their top bats to keep bringing in the runs.
They need Jose Ramirez, Steven Kwan and Josh Naylor to have career years, and some of them are on their way there.
But they also need something extra, a minor leaguer making a big impact… or two.
George Valera, Chase DeLauter, Kyle Manzardo and other relevant prospects are making their presence felt in Triple-A, waiting for a chance.
The Guardians have the pieces, but so do their rivals.
It will be a tight race until the very end.
NEXT: Guardians Outfielder Is Mired In An Ugly Slump
