To say that this has been a roller coaster season for the Cleveland Guardians would be a huge understatement.
They have been up and down all year, and it’s been hard to predict what version of them you’re going to get.
They can either drop five in a row or win nine of 10.
Though streaky teams don’t usually fare well, they might be the exception to that rule.
Veteran catcher Austin Hedges recently opened up on his goal for the remainder of the season.
“I play this game for the playoffs,” Hedges said. “I play this game to chase a ring. I think I could speak for everybody in this clubhouse, that’s what we want. That’s really our ultimate goal. I’ve been on teams that haven’t been in the mix in September and it is no fun. To be in it and to be pushing to go for it together, with a group that you really care about, is why we play this game. I’m really proud of our guys for what we’re doing right now.”
Some might say the Guardians would’ve been better off trading some of their veterans at the deadline to acquire assets and get ready for next season, which is what most teams in their position would’ve done.
However, they never wanted to consider giving up.
The team has fought through thick and thin and will continue to compete for as long as they have a chance to make the playoffs.
Granted, they might not be as strong a contender as other teams pursuing a playoff berth or already bound for the postseason.
But less talented teams have made deep postseason runs.
It’s about getting hot at the right time and taking care of business on the mound.
The Guardians are surprisingly still within reach of an AL Wild Card, and they will continue to play like a team that doesn’t have anything to lose.
NEXT: Guardians Make Notable Move In Latest Power Rankings
