Guardians’ Tanner Bibee Ill for Opening Day Start Against Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Cleveland Guardians starting pitcher Tanner Bibee will not make his scheduled opening day start against the Kansas City Royals due to illness. The announcement came after the team reported Bibee fell ill on Tuesday evening as they arrived in Kansas City.

Initially set to take the mound on Thursday, Bibee’s unexpected absence opened the door for teammate Ben Lively, who stepped in and contributed significantly to the Guardians’ 7-4 victory in extra innings.

Manager Stephen Vogt indicated that affirming Bibee’s place in the rotation would depend on his recovery progress. “He gets mad when I take him out of a game in the seventh inning after he’s thrown 105 pitches,” Vogt said, acknowledging Bibee’s competitive spirit and desire to play.

In a promising 2025 season build-up, Bibee had recently secured a five-year, $48 million contract extension, along with earning his first opening day start. Last season, he exhibited impressive stats, finishing with a 12-8 record and a 3.47 ERA over 31 starts, including 187 strikeouts across 137.2 innings and four postseason appearances.

As the Guardians adjust to Bibee’s absence, Gavin Williams is slated to pitch on Saturday. The Royals will counter with Seth Lugo, while Bibee still hopes to return to the mound on Sunday against Michael Wacha.

Meanwhile, the Guardians will open a three-game series against the San Diego Padres on Monday, where Luis Ortiz is set to start in place of Bibee.