Cleveland Guardians Ready Tanner Bibee for ALCS Game 5 on Short Rest against New York Yankees

In a critical matchup, the Cleveland Guardians have decided to place their faith in right-handed pitcher Tanner Bibee as they strive to avert playoff elimination in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees. The decision comes with the aim of keeping their postseason hopes alive, despite the challenges presented by Bibee’s short rest period.

Bibee, aged 25, made a previous appearance in Game 2, during which his stint on the mound was brief. He managed only 1⅓ innings in a 6-3 loss to the Yankees, which allowed New York to gain a 2-0 advantage in the series. During that game, Bibee conceded five hits and three runs, two of which were earned, over a span of 39 pitches. Cleveland’s manager is unwavering in his support, stating, “He’s been our best pitcher all year. I can’t wait to get him back out there. He feels good. He feels ready.”

Throughout the regular season, Bibee exhibited solid performance with a record of 12-8 and an ERA of 3.47. He also contributed significantly during Cleveland’s victory in the American League Division Series, starting in two games and allowing just two runs over 8⅔ innings without receiving a decision in either outing. As Saturday marks his first foray into major league play under a three-day rest regimen, the team and fans anticipate how this altered schedule might affect his performance.

In response to this decision, Bibee shared his perspective, indicating confidence in his readiness, “It’s not like I went out there and threw 100 pitches and am about to go out there and do it again. I threw 39 pitches. I feel good. I’m ready to go.”

Bibee is set to challenge the Yankees’ Game 1 starter, left-hander Carlos Rodon. Rodon delivered a commendable performance in his previous engagement, limiting the Guardians to one run over six innings while striking out nine and securing a win at Yankee Stadium. Rodon has maintained a strong track record at Cleveland’s Progressive Field, boasting a 6-4 record with a 3.08 ERA over 13 appearances there. “I don’t know [why],” Rodon reflected, “It’s just one of those things where, sometimes as players, you show up to certain places and you pitch well.”

As the Yankees lead the best-of-seven series 3-1, courtesy of their recent victory in Game 4, all eyes are on Game 5 to see if Cleveland can mount a comeback under pressure.