The Cleveland Guardians have added outfielder Angel Martinez to their postseason roster as an injury replacement, following approval from Major League Baseball (MLB). Martinez replaces outfielder Tyler Freeman, who sustained an oblique injury during a simulated game, ahead of Game 2 in the American League Division Series (ALDS) against the Detroit Tigers.
MLB’s medical director, Dr. Gary Green, thoroughly reviewed the medical information provided on Freeman’s injury and confirmed its severity. According to MLB rules, Freeman is now ineligible to return to the Guardians’ roster until the World Series, should Cleveland advance that far.
Freeman, 25, played a significant role for the Guardians during the 2024 regular season. In 118 games, he posted a .209 batting average, with seven home runs, 32 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases. Despite his contributions, Freeman’s injury means Cleveland will now have to move forward without him for the ALDS and any subsequent postseason rounds until potentially the World Series.
Angel Martinez, 22, was called up to the majors in June of the 2024 season and has shown promise in limited appearances. In 43 regular-season games, Martinez batted .232, hitting three home runs and tallying 11 RBIs. His addition to the postseason roster comes as Cleveland seeks to maintain its depth in the outfield while chasing a championship.
The Guardians began their ALDS with a commanding 7-0 win over the Tigers, giving them momentum in the best-of-five series. With Martinez now on the roster, Cleveland will hope the young outfielder can contribute to their postseason run, especially with the absence of Freeman.
The Guardians will continue their playoff push with Game 2, looking to take a commanding lead in the series and inch closer to advancing further in the postseason.
