Guardians lose key pitcher to injured list during playoff push

The Cleveland Guardians made multiple roster moves before their doubleheader against the Detroit Tigers on Friday. According to Tim Stebbins of MLB.com, key reliever Colin Holderman has been placed on the 15-day injured list. Additionally, right-handed pitcher Slade Cecconi was activated from the injured list, right-handed pitcher Austin Peterson was promoted from Triple-A and right-handed pitcher Carlos Hernandez was designated for assignment. Mason Horodyski of News 5 Cleveland reports Holderman is dealing with right wrist inflammation.

The Guardians have serious questions on their roster but the ball club is still holding onto the final American League Wild Card spot. The starting pitching has led the way. While the lineup has improved in recent weeks, it is still rather inconsistent. Meanwhile, the bullpen has endured its share of ups and downs, and losing Holderman to the IL is far from ideal.

The 30-year-old right-handed pitcher has turned in a strong 2.73 ERA across 54 outings this season. He has been one of the more reliable relievers in the Guardians’ bullpen. Cleveland will need other pitchers to step up while Holderman is out with the injury. It remains to be seen when he will return from the IL.

At 70-70, Cleveland is currently in second place in the American League Central standings, trailing the Chicago White Sox by three games. Meanwhile, they hold the final AL Wild Card position but are only a half-game ahead of the Texas Rangers and Toronto Blue Jays. The Guardians’ performance in their doubleheader on Friday will be crucial given their current standings placement.

The post Guardians lose key pitcher to injured list during playoff push appeared first on ClutchPoints.