Season-Ending Blow: Alex Cobb’s Postseason Dreams Cut Short
The Cleveland Guardians received devastating news on Tuesday: their star pitcher Alex Cobb’s season is over due to an acute left low back strain. This sudden injury has not only ruled Cobb out of the American League Championship Series but also makes him ineligible for the World Series roster should the Guardians advance.
A Promising Start Cut Short
Cobb, 37, was forced to depart Monday’s Game 1 against the New York Yankees after just 2⅔ innings. The right-hander had been waiting for this moment his entire career, making the timing of this injury particularly cruel. “It’s been a challenging year, and to not be able to contribute… puts the team in a hole,” Cobb lamented.
The Injury: A Full-Blown IL Stint
According to Manager Stephen Vogt, Cobb’s left hip tightened up, and he was dealing with back spasms. Vogt emphasized that this type of injury would typically require a full-blown IL stint, making it highly unlikely Cobb would pitch again this season.
Roster Shake-Up: Ben Lively Steps In
The Guardians have replaced Cobb on their roster with Ben Lively, another right-handed starter. Lively led the team in wins during the regular season, boasting a 13-10 record with a 3.81 ERA in 29 starts. The 32-year-old has never pitched in the postseason but is staying prepared, maintaining his workout program and heavy bullpen days.
Game 3 Uncertainty
With Cobb’s injury, the Guardians’ rotation is in flux. Lively and left-hander Gavin Williams are candidates to start Game 3 on Thursday in Cleveland. Manager Vogt acknowledged the uncertainty, saying, “We don’t know what we’re going to have… Alex was going to start Game 5. Now we have to figure out today knowing that we have six more games to cover.”
A Turbulent Season Comes to a Close
Cobb’s season was marked by injuries, making only five starts for Cleveland after being acquired from the San Francisco Giants at the trade deadline. The 2023 All-Star underwent hip surgery last October and landed on the injured list twice more due to a fractured fingernail and a blister on his right hand. His postseason appearances were cut short, finishing with a 0-2 record and a 7.94 ERA.
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