Cleveland Guardians Name Alex Cobb as Game 1 Starter for ALCS
The stage is set for the American League Championship Series, and the Cleveland Guardians have chosen right-hander Alex Cobb to take the mound for Game 1 against the New York Yankees. Cobb will face off against Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodon on Monday.
A Season of Challenges
Cobb’s journey to this moment has been far from easy. After undergoing hip surgery following the 2023 season, he faced a setback with shoulder inflammation during spring training. As a result, he didn’t make his season debut until August 9, and his regular-season starts were limited to just three.
A Glimpse of Brilliance
Despite the challenges, Cobb showed flashes of brilliance. In his final start of the regular season on September 1, he took a perfect game into the seventh inning before giving up an infield single. However, his progress was halted once again by a torn fingernail and a blister, forcing him to miss another month.
Return to Action
Cobb returned to action in Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Detroit Tigers, giving up two runs on three hits over three innings. Although the Guardians ultimately lost 3-0, Cobb’s 41-pitch outing suggests he may be ready to expand his role on Monday.
A Seasoned Veteran
With 13 major league seasons under his belt, Cobb brings a wealth of experience to the table. His career record stands at 79-76 with a 3.84 ERA in 233 starts, spanning stints with the Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Angels, San Francisco Giants, and Guardians. Cobb was also an All-Star in 2023, a testament to his skill and dedication.
A New Chapter
Traded from the Giants to the Guardians on July 30 while still on the injured list, Cobb is now poised to play a crucial role in the ALCS. As he takes the mound on Monday, the Guardians will be counting on him to bring his A-game and help propel them to victory.
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