MLB1h ago
Guardians Lean on Reliever Armstrong to Start ALCS Game 6
Cleveland turns to a familiar arm for the pivotal contest while keeping Gavin Williams available on full rest for a possible decisive matchup the next night.
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Game 6 Starter Choice
The Guardians will hand the ball to right-handed reliever Shawn Armstrong to open Game 6 against the Rays. Armstrong, who is 36, has already worked as an opener this postseason and has not allowed a run across 7⅔ innings in playoff action. He did not make any starts during the regular season.
Williams Held for Game 7
The club has decided against using Gavin Williams on three days of rest. The plan instead calls for Williams to take the ball on full rest if the series reaches Game 7. Manager Stephen Vogt noted the staff has faced a challenging stretch that began with the push to reach the postseason and continued through the AL Division Series.
Pitching Staff Strain
Rookie Parker Messick has been limited in length during his postseason outings, placing extra reliance on other arms. Williams has posted elevated pitch counts and strikeout totals throughout the playoffs, including work in the division series. The Rays are expected to counter with right-hander Freddy Peralta.
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