In a bold gambit, the Cleveland Guardians are turning to their rising star, 25-year-old right-hander Tanner Bibee, to start the pivotal ALCS Game 5 against the New York Yankees on just three days rest. It’s a daring move born of both necessity and faith in Bibee’s electric arm as Cleveland looks to keep their World Series dreams alive.
Bibee Takes the Mound on Short Rest
Tanner Bibee burst onto the scene this season, posting a stellar 12-8 record with a 3.47 ERA. His poise and power stuff have made him Cleveland’s most effective starter, earning him the nod for Saturday’s do-or-die showdown at Progressive Field.
Manager Stephen Vogt didn’t hesitate when asked about the decision to start Bibee on short rest:
“He’s been our best pitcher all year. I can’t wait to get him back out there. He feels good. He feels ready.”
– Stephen Vogt, Cleveland Guardians Manager
A Quick Rebound
Bibee struggled in his Game 2 start at Yankee Stadium, lasting just 1⅓ innings while allowing 3 runs. But with only 39 pitches thrown, he and the Guardians are confident he can bounce back on limited rest.
“It’s not like I went out there and threw 100 pitches last time. I threw 39 pitches. I feel good. I’m ready to go.”
– Tanner Bibee, Cleveland Guardians Starting Pitcher
Rodon Takes the Hill for New York
The Yankees counter with left-hander Carlos Rodon, their Game 1 starter. Rodon was dominant in the series opener, striking out 9 over 6 innings while allowing just 1 run. He’s enjoyed plenty of success at Progressive Field in his career.
“I don’t know why. It’s just one of those things where sometimes as players, you show up to certain places and you pitch well.”
– Carlos Rodon, New York Yankees Starting Pitcher
High Stakes in Cleveland
With New York leading the series 2-1, the pressure is squarely on Cleveland’s shoulders heading into Game 4 and the Bibee-Rodon rematch looming in Game 5. The Guardians need their young ace to rise to the moment if they hope to send the series back to the Bronx.
Can Tanner Bibee make franchise history by leading Cleveland to victory on short rest? Will the Yankees ride Rodon’s arm and their powerhouse lineup to the brink of the World Series? The baseball world will be watching intently as this thrilling ALCS showdown unfolds under the bright lights at Progressive Field.
