The Cleveland Guardians have finally caught a break in what’s been a rough stretch, as their All-Star third baseman is set to return to the lineup just one day after being sidelined. The team confirmed that he will be back at third base and batting third for Game 2 against the St. Louis Cardinals.
The slugger was hit on the right forearm by a 95 mph fastball in Thursday’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Although he initially remained in the game, he exited shortly after and was held out of Friday’s series opener in St. Louis. The injury came during a tense moment, with many believing it was retaliation for an earlier hit-by-pitch incident involving Toronto’s Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Without their leader, Cleveland’s offense completely unraveled. The Guardians were shut out in back-to-back games, including a dominant one-hit complete-game shutout delivered by Cardinals ace Sonny Gray. In those two losses, the Guardians recorded just three total hits and no runs.
The timing of his return couldn’t be more critical. Cleveland has dropped three of its last four games and has been outscored 25-11 during that stretch. The offense, once one of the more dynamic in the division, has stalled without its top producer anchoring the lineup.
The six-time All-Star remains the heart of Cleveland’s offense. Even with a few missed games, he leads the team in nearly every major offensive category, including batting average, home runs, RBIs, and stolen bases. Earlier this month, he made MLB history by leading his club in six different stats for the third time in his career.
As the Guardians look to stay in the postseason race, having their star back healthy and producing is essential. With a chance to break their slump and regain momentum against the Cardinals, his return may be just what Cleveland needs to shift the narrative.
