CLEVELAND, Ohio — How does Cleveland fare in the postseason after winning Game 1 of a playoff series? After blanking Detroit with a 7-0 win in Saturday’s series opener, the Guardians have put themselves in good position to take the series.
Cleveland is 6-4 in postseason play when winning the series opener. When losing the first game of a series, the club’s record drops to 5-9.
The last time Cleveland won a series opener was Game 1 of the 2017 American League Division Series against New York. That 4-0 win also marked the last time Cleveland tossed a shutout in a playoff series opener.
Cleveland also tossed a shutout in Game 1 of the 2016 World Series, a 6-0 win against the Cubs at Progressive Field.
Saturday’s game marked the 16th playoff shutout by Cleveland, and tied for the largest margin of victory in a postseason shutout in club history, matching Game 4 of the 1995 AL Championship Series against Seattle. Cleveland won that game, 7-0.
“It was great for our guys to come out with a bang like that,” said manager Stephen Vogt. “It’s a testament to them and the hard work they put in this week, the layoff and then the break. And all of our hitters really got in the cages. They worked hard. They challenged themselves all week long in their practice, and they were prepared.”
Trivia time
After a big win, the most appropriate thing to eat is a breakfast of champions. So pour a bowl of Wheaties and get ourself some little chocolate donuts to celebrate Saturday’s series opener. While you’re at it, consider this: Cade Smith became the third Cleveland pitcher to earn a win in his postseason debut. Name either of the other two. Answer below.
First pitch
The Guardians will welcome Josh Tomlin, who pitched for the club from 2010-18, to throw the ceremonial first pitch ahead of Game 2 against the Tigers.
Postseason schedule
The Guardians open the ALDS on Saturday at Progressive Field. Game time is 1:08 p.m. They will play Game 2 on Monday at 4:08 p.m. Here is the updated schedule for times and TV broadcasts.
What’s next?
Monday: Game 2 of the ALDS vs. Detroit at Progressive Field. The game will air on TBS, simulcast on truTV, stream on MAX. First pitch is set for 4:08 p.m.
Game 2 of Royals at Yankees is set for 8:08 p.m.
Tuesday: The Guardians and Tigers are off. Both teams will work out in Detroit as the series shifts to Comerica Park for games 3 and 4.
Wednesday: Game 3 between Tigers and Guardians at 3:08 p.m. Neither team has officially announced a starting pitcher.
Trivia answer: Sam Hentges (2020 ALWCS G2 vs. TB) and Ken Hill (1995 ALDS G1 vs. BOS) are the only other two Cleveland pitchers besides Smith to earn a win in their first playoff appearances.
If you or a loved one has questions and needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-589-9966 or the National Council on Program Gambling Helpline (NCPG) at 1-800-522-4700 or visit 1800gambler.net for more information. 21+ and present in Ohio. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.
