(Cleveland) The Cleveland Guardians took the lead in their American League first-round series with a 2-1 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday afternoon at Progressive Field.
Posted at 5:02 p.m.
All of the game’s runs came from home runs in the sixth inning.
The Rays opened the scoring with a solo slap from Jose Siri to right-center field after an out to starter Shane Bieber.
Third baseman Jose Ramirez hit back with a two-run homer off Shane McClanahan after an out. Amed Rosario, who had hit a single just before, preceded him at home plate.
The footage was video reviewed, with the Rays believing Rosario forgot to touch second base. The televised replay showed Rosario slowed down and touched the cushion. After consultation, officials on the pitch confirmed that the Guardians’ two points stood.
“Nothing surprises me,” Rosario said, “about Ramirez’s opportunism. I think he’s the best player in baseball. »
PHOTO DAVID DERMER, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Shane Bieber of the Cleveland Guardians
On the mound, Bieber was solid for 7.2 innings. He allowed three hits and a walk and recorded eight strikeouts.
Inexperienced, the Guardians still seem to have many assets.
We are young players and this is our reality. I would tell you that it has served us very well so far.
Shane Bieber
He gave way to stopper Emmanuel Clase after giving a single to Isaac Paredes.
Clase snuffed out the threat by forcing Siri to smack a low arrow into Ramirez before striking out all three Rays batters in order in the ninth inning.
For his part, McClanahan pitched for seven innings. He gave up seven hits and no walks. He had five strikeouts.
Garrett Cleavinger allowed one hit and struck out two batters in one inning of relief work.
The two teams will meet Saturday noon at Progressive Field. The Rays will need to register a victory to force the holding of a decisive game, Sunday afternoon, in this best-of-three series.