The Cleveland Guardians woke up on Sunday with a two-game lead over the Kansas City Royals and the Minnesota Twins after snapping a three-game losing streak on Saturday.
They will try and take the series against the Texas Rangers on Sunday, starting at 1:40 pm ET.
Even if they win on Sunday, and especially if they lose, the series they will play to open next week is of the utmost importance.
Starting with a Monday doubleheader, the Guardians will host the Royals for a huge four-game set that could shape the future of the division.
Cleveland will be relying on two inexperienced, yet talented pitchers to shut down the Bobby Witt Jr.-led Royals offense for the doubleheader.
“Logan Allen (will be promoted) and Joey Cantillo (will be 27th man) will pitch for the Guardians, in some fashion, in tomorrow’s doubleheader,” Guardians insider Zack Meisel tweeted.
Logan Allen (will be promoted) and Joey Cantillo (will be 27th man) will pitch for the Guardians, in some fashion, in tomorrow’s doubleheader.
— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) August 25, 2024
It is’t clear if they will start or serve as relievers.
Allen, the owner of a 3.81 ERA as a rookie last year, has struggled to the tune of a 5.56 ERA in 92.1 innings as a Guardian this season.
His 4.55 ERA in Triple-A isn’t much better.
He could be a serviceable fifth starter at some point but doesn’t inspire much confidence at the moment.
Cantillo, on the other hand, has been more successful in Triple-A Columbus with a 2.97 ERA in 33.1 frames there this year.
He has been battered during his time in MLB, though, as he has an 8.47 ERA in 17 innings.
Depending on what happens on Sunday, the Guardians could potentially extend their lead against the Royals to five games after Monday’s doubleheader, or lose the AL Central’s top spot.
They will need Allen and Cantillo to be a the top of their game on Monday.
NEXT: 'Big Christmas' Leads Power Outburst As Guardians Snap Losing Streak
