CLEVELAND (AP) — In a dramatic finish, the Cleveland Guardians edged the Detroit Tigers 4-3 in the 10th inning, completing a doubleheader sweep on Friday. The pivotal moment came when Travis Bazzana delivered a single that brought home Brayan Rocchio, who had reached base on a fielder’s choice and showcased his speed by stealing both second and third base.
Bazzana's heroics were set up by his earlier performance in the eighth inning, where he tied the game with a two-run homer off Tigers pitcher Jacob Waguespack. This game-winning hit not only secured the victory but also highlighted Bazzana's growing impact in crucial moments for the Guardians.
In the first game of the doubleheader, Rocchio was instrumental in another thrilling finish for Cleveland, hitting a solo homer in the ninth inning after previously tying the game with a grand slam in the fourth. The Guardians ultimately triumphed 7-6, marking a significant achievement as it was the first time since August 19, 1984, that Cleveland won both games of a doubleheader in walk-off fashion.
Hunter Gaddis, who pitched two scoreless innings in the nightcap, earned the win, improving his record to 3-3. His performance was crucial in maintaining the Guardians' position in the playoff race, as they currently hold the final American League wild-card spot with a record of 72-70.
The Tigers initially took control of the game, scoring two runs in the third inning. Hao-Yu Lee drove in Zach McKinstry with a single, followed by Kevin McGonigle's RBI double that brought home Gleyber Torres. Detroit extended their lead to 3-1 in the fifth inning when Eduardo Valencia's single allowed Torres to cross home plate again.
However, the game was not without its challenges for both teams. Lee was thrown out at home plate during a third-inning play and later exited the game due to a bruised left shin sustained in a collision with Guardians catcher Austin Hedges. Additionally, Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt was ejected in the fifth inning after he intervened in a dispute between the plate umpire Manny Gonzalez and Hedges.
In the fifth inning, the Guardians faced further setbacks as left fielder Angel Martínez was removed with a bruised left shoulder after colliding with Rocchio while chasing a pop-up. Designated hitter Chase DeLauter was also taken out in the sixth due to a right wrist sprain, leading to Bazzana's crucial appearance.
Looking ahead, the two teams will meet again for the third game of the series on Saturday. The Tigers will send left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez, who holds an 8-10 record with a 4.36 ERA, to the mound against Guardians lefty Parker Messick, who boasts an impressive 11-8 record and a 2.46 ERA.
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