The Cleveland Guardians, leading the MLB with the best record and topping the latest power rankings, have faced recent struggles with their starting pitchers due to injuries. Despite winning six of their last eight games, the team is dealing with a mix of setbacks and hopeful returns.
The most significant update is that ace Tanner Bibee will miss his scheduled start on Saturday due to right shoulder tightness, as reported by The Athletic’s Zack Meisel. Bibee, a standout rookie last season who finished second in the Rookie of the Year voting, has had a strong 2024 with a 9-4 record, 3.48 ERA, and 132 strikeouts in 121.2 innings.
In Bibee’s absence, rookie Joey Cantillo will start against the Baltimore Orioles. Cantillo struggled in his MLB debut last weekend, giving up three earned runs in 3.1 innings.
The Guardians acquired Alex Cobb from the San Francisco Giants at the trade deadline, but he has yet to debut this season due to offseason hip surgery and right shoulder inflammation. Cobb is scheduled for a rehab start on Saturday, which could be his final step before joining the Guardians’ rotation.
Additionally, starter Matthew Boyd, who had Tommy John surgery in June 2023, is still recovering and has yet to pitch for Cleveland after signing a one-year deal.
