The Cleveland Guardians’ biggest weakness showed up at the worst possible time Saturday, as their offense went silent in a 3-0 loss to the Chicago White Sox in Game 1 of the American League Division Series at Progressive Field.
The Guardians never solved Chicago’s chaotic pitching plan, which leaned on shorter starts, openers and a parade of relievers designed to keep hitters from ever getting comfortable. Cleveland’s lineup managed little of substance all afternoon, and the concern that has shadowed the club through much of the summer — an inconsistent offense — now stands as the biggest obstacle between a trip to the ALCS and an early playoff exit.
Outfielder Jo Adell endured a rough postseason debut from the cleanup spot, going 0-for-4 with four strikeouts. “Yeah, I mean, I was definitely put in a blender today for sure,” Adell said. “It’s difficult. You’re getting different looks out there to make it tough, and we’ve got adjust and find a way to do it.”
Chicago improved to 3-0 in the postseason, and its pitching-by-committee approach is giving opposing managers fits. The Guardians have until Monday to figure out how to counter the constant stream of fresh arms before Game 2, now even more critical for Cleveland, set for 5 p.m. Monday at Progressive Field.
The shutout stung a home crowd that came expecting a fast start to the series. Cleveland’s pitching did enough to keep the game within reach, but the bats never answered. The Guardians will need their lineup — and Adell in particular — to adjust quickly if they want to avoid falling into an 0-2 hole before the series shifts to Chicago.