Somehow, some way, the Guardians still gave us three things to almost-smile about during this abysmal week.
It’s been a week since I last put one of these out, and the Guardians haven’t won a game. (Pretend this came out on Monday like it was supposed to.) Yet, we persist. Here are three things to make you frown less as we try to figure out what’s wrong with this team.
Bieber Close to Rehab
On Saturday afternoon, Cleveland’s ace Shane Bieber threw two innings of live batting practice. Sidelined back in March, Bieber has been working hard at making a return this summer. Prior to making his next rehab start, Bieber will need to face hitters in batting practice again. He has not thrown in a rehab session since early May. Manager Stephen Vogt said, “I thought he looked incredible, his stuff was really good.” While one pitcher won’t save the season for this team who can’t seem to hit, he will be a welcome addition once it’s time for him to return.
Kwan Returns to ASG
Sunday night, it was announced that outfielder Steven Kwan would be going to the 2025 All-Star Game in Atlanta as a player-elected reserve. This marks his second time being selected as an All-Star, his first coming last year. He will join starting third-baseman José Ramírez and manager Stephen Vogt as the Cleveland representatives. While anticipation is high for the much-needed break, it will be exciting and fun to see Kwan and Ramírez take the field in a game that doesn’t really count.
Smith Returns
After a short break due to back spasms, reliever Cade Smith made his return to the mound on Thursday. In that first game back, he pitched one inning where he struck out two batters and gave up zero walks, hits, and runs. He then had an identical performance just two days later versus the Detroit Tigers. A vital part of this team’s relief rotation, Smith’s return was highly anticipated. Hopefully, it was a short-term problem and the spasms will not continue to bother him.