The Cleveland Guardians went with two starting pitchers to begin the American League Division Series in Parker Messick and Gavin Williams. Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox have turned to bullpen games. Although Messick and Williams both pitched well, the White Sox earned victories in both contests. Cleveland is turning to a similar strategy Wednesday with reliever Daniel Espino getting the start. Zack Meisel of The Athletic reported the news.
The reality of the situation is that Cleveland's pitching strategy won't matter if the offense doesn't step up. The lineup has been unable to find any consistency so far in the series. The Guardians may need to make a change or two in order to generate an offensive spark.
As for their pitching strategy, Espino will likely get the first inning or two before giving way to a bulk starter. While the Guards could end up going with an overall bullpen game as well, a pitcher such as Joey Cantillo or Tanner Bibee could follow Espino and provide multiple innings. Cleveland had Cantillo pitch in that role toward the end of the season, so he's familiar with the strategy.
Article Continues BelowForster Griffin is a candidate to pitch as well, but he may be the Game 4 starter if the Guards win Game 3. Of course, winning on Wednesday is mandatory if Cleveland wants to play another game, so all available pitchers will be options.
Whether it is a true bullpen game with multiple relievers throughout or a reliever followed by a bulk starter, the Guardians are shifting away from the traditional starting pitcher strategy. We will find out if it works on Wednesday.