Ramirez, Bieber lead Guardians past Tigers

It was the combined efforts of Jose Ramirez and Shane Bieber that propelled the Cleveland Guardians over the Detroit Tigers with an 8-1 win.

Ramirez went 2-4 with five RBI thanks to a bases clearing triple and a two-run homer. In addition to what he did at the plate, Ramirez scored three times, walked once, and stolen base. Josh Naylor also had a productive day at the plate going 2-5 with a double, two RBI, and a run scored.

Bieber struck out five Tigers in 8 innings. The Guardians starter scattered eight hits while allowing just one run. This outing combined with Cleveland’s offense taking advantage of Detroit’s pitching led to a much needed win Saturday.

The early success of Oscar Gonzalez also continued. Gonzalez again went 2-4, one of those hits being a double. Another young outfielder, Richie Palacios, joined Gonzalez in the quest for playing time. Palacios got two hits in four at-bats with an RBI and a run scored. Both Gonzalez and Palacios have found playing time due to Franmil Reyes landing on the list. So far they have taken advantage as they may push another outfielder off the roster considering how the unit has performed so far.

The third and final game of the series (thanks to Friday’s’ postponement) will take place Sunday at 1:40 with Triston McKenzie starting for the Guardians while Elvin Rodriguez will be Detroit’s counterpart.