The Cleveland Guardians find themselves battling for an AL Wild Card spot, thanks largely to a pitching staff that turned things around when it mattered most.
After spending much of the season near the bottom in key statistical categories, the rotation has stabilized in dramatic fashion.
Former Cleveland pitcher Jensen Lewis recently highlighted this significant turnaround.
“Credit where it’s due. The rotation as a whole has really rounded into form, and that’s a big reason why this team is still in the Wild Card race,” Lewis said.
"Credit where it's due. The rotation as a whole as really rounded into form. That's a big reason why this team is still in the Wild Card race."
Presented by @nefdirect! Get a discount on any item with this form: https://t.co/hE2TsKlAkm pic.twitter.com/7CDV8lpT8S
— BIGPLAY Cleveland Show (@BIGPLAYCLEshow) September 10, 2025
Gavin Williams has emerged as the frontline starter the organization envisioned when it selected him in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft.
He almost threw a no-hitter against the New York Mets, showcasing the talent that made him such a coveted prospect.
The supporting cast has stepped up as well.
Parker Messick made his MLB debut and has shown flashes of dominance befitting his status as a second-round pick in the 2022 draft.
Joey Cantillo has been even more impressive with his recent outings, including eight scoreless innings against the Kansas City Royals that demonstrated the young left-hander’s upside.
Slade Cecconi is a different story. He looked like a potential Game 1 playoff starter earlier in the season, but has struggled to recapture that form recently.
The overall pitching resurgence becomes more impressive considering the offensive inconsistencies that have plagued Cleveland throughout the season.
The rotation and bullpen have faced constant pressure to keep games close, often getting little run support.
Their ability to deliver has kept the Guardians competitive with AL Central rivals and wild-card contenders looming on the remaining schedule.
NEXT: Stats Show How Impressive Joey Cantillo Has Been Since Return
