Living for tomorrow is always a risky proposition, especially in October, but there are times when it can be just as hazardous to overly seize the moment. While it is encouraging to see a small-ball manager like Stephen Vogt trusting two of his best pitchers in an elimination matchup, balance is everything. The Cleveland Guardians survived on Thursday, but now they will have to survive the decisions they made to accomplish that mission.
One day after tossing two fabulous innings against the Chicago White Sox in Game 3 of the American League Division Series, elite closer Cade Smith surprisingly took the mound with a five-run lead in the eighth inning of Game 4. He scuffled in the ninth, and Vogt brought in Gavin Williams to finish off the 9-5, season-extending victory. A conclusive clash will now take place in Progressive Field, but Cleveland's pitching situation is a bit murky following this aggressive approach.
Ken Rosenthal is skeptical himself.
“I was in love with what the Guardians were doing last night, until I saw Gavin Williams stroll out of the bullpen,” the longtime MLB reporter and writer told Alanna Rizzo on the “Fair Territory” podcast. “I understood it. You had to win the game, there's no question about it, but it would've been a lot cleaner if they didn't need him for 18 pitches after Cade Smith threw 31.”
Article Continues Below"It would've been a lot cleaner if they didn't need him for 18 pitches after Cade Smith threw 31."@Ken_Rosenthal loved what he was seeing from the Guardians in Game 4 until Gavin Williams emerged from the bullpen… pic.twitter.com/QzSBTJDzSB
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) October 9, 2026
One can argue that using Williams is rational because he was scheduled for a bullpen day regardless, but entering a rowdy playoff environment is a bit different. What is most befuddling is the Guardians' decision to unload Smith over a two-day span, and in non-save situations. He seemed to run out of gas toward the end of his last outing, causing many to wonder why he was out there in the first place. Cleveland better hope that one day of rest is enough for this All-Star to refill his tank.
Although it is unrealistic to expect anyone to be fresh in the playoffs, the Guardians have seen their season end in the past by employing a similar strategy. One can only ask so much of their top relievers. Fortunately, Stephen Vogt and his squad get to navigate this hurdle in front of a thunderous home crowd.
Gavin Williams will presumably start Game 5 on Saturday, and if needed, Cade Smith can ideally post one more effective outing against the green yet resilient White Sox. First pitch is set for 8 p.m. ET.