CLEVELAND – Gabriel Arias delivered a clutch two-run double with two outs in the seventh inning, leading the Cleveland Guardians to a thrilling 7-5 comeback victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday. This win marked the end of the Angels’ eight-game road winning streak.
The Guardians, after falling behind 5-1, showcased their resilience. Carlos Santana initiated the rally with a leadoff home run against Angels reliever Ryan Zeferjahn, leveling the score at 5-5. Following a single and a stolen base by Daniel Schneemann, Bo Naylor’s walk set the stage for Arias, who capitalized with a decisive double to center on a 3-2 pitch.
Cleveland’s starting pitcher, Slade Cecconi, faced challenges, allowing five runs on seven hits over 4 1/3 innings. However, the bullpen emerged solidly, with Hunter Gaddis, Nic Enright, Logan Allen (who earned his third win of the season), and Cade Smith each delivering a scoreless inning. Emmanuel Clase closed the game with a perfect ninth, securing his 12th save in 14 opportunities.
The Angels, led by Yoán Moncada and Taylor Ward’s third-inning home runs, initially surged to a 2-0 lead. Jo Adell further extended their advantage after Mike Trout’s single, hitting his seventh homer for a 4-0 lead. Despite the early deficit, Cleveland fought back, with Nolan Jones hitting a two-run triple in the fourth and José Ramírez contributing a homer in the fifth. Steven Kwan also made an impact with a solo home run, concluding the evening with a 3-for-5 performance, just a triple away from the cycle.
Despite their power display, the Angels were unable to secure their first series win in Cleveland since 2013, as they matched their club record with home runs in 14 consecutive road games.
Looking ahead, the Angels will send RHP Jack Von Kochanowicz (3-6, 5.07 ERA) to the mound for Sunday’s rubber match against Guardians’ RHP Gavin Williams (4-3, 4.27).
This game highlights the competitive spirit of both teams and the unpredictability of baseball, where a team’s fortunes can change rapidly. The Guardians’ ability to rally signifies their tenacity, making Sunday’s matchup even more enticing.