Guardians News and Notes: A Step Back for Sticks

News and Notes for Friday, February 28th, 2025

The Guardians had their biggest dud of the Spring so far yesterday, losing 4-2 to the White Sox.

The game started off well enough pitching-wise, with Logan Allen throwing 2 and 2/3rds innings with four strikeouts, allowing just one hit and one walk. THEN, unfortunately, the walk monster popped back up for Triston McKenzie as he walked five White Sox batters in two-thirds of an inning and allowed a double. His stuff looked good. He just could not command it. So, we’ve seen one good start for McKenzie and one awful start. ...We will see what happens next.

Paul Sewald made his first appearance of the Spring and looked pretty rusty, but we’ll assume he’s shaking that off. Andrew Misiaszek threw two scoreless innings to end the game and I wonder if the lefty might see some more notable reps as the Guardians may be looking to replace Erik Sabrowski on the Opening Day roster if he can’t get on the field soon (recovering from a hamstring pull) and a lefty fits well there.

As for hitters, Steven Kwan, Tyler Freeman, Micah Pries, Joe Lampe, Dom Nunez, Zack Cozart and Will Wilson all had hits. Freeman and Kwan also executed a great relay throw to get a runner at the plate. Right now, until Juan Brito shows he can relax and execute at the plate, Freeman would be my choice to open at second base while Brito warms up at Columbus. Kyle Manzardo, Gabriel Arias and Milan Tolentino took walks in the game.

Erik Samulski of NBCSports had a nice interview with Gavin Williams.

Nicole and I got back on the podcast horse after a month layoff and discussed early Spring Training storylines on the Disgusting Baseball podcast.

The Guardians play the Rockies in Goodyear today at 3:05PM EST, with Kyle Freeland matching up against Ben Lively.