The Houston Astros and Cleveland Guardians are gearing up for their final regular season game of 2024 on Sunday. Both teams have already clinched their respective division titles, with the Astros taking the AL West and the Guardians securing the AL Central. As the Astros prepare for their wildcard round match this week, the Guardians will enjoy a bye heading into the ALDS. While neither team has confirmed their starting pitchers for Sunday, it is expected that a mix of pitchers will take the mound as both teams fine-tune their rosters for the playoffs. The anticipated first pitch is set for 3:10 pm EST.
Astros Eye Continued Success
As the Houston Astros approach the end of another impressive season, they look to secure a strong finish against the Guardians. Having already claimed the AL West Division title, the Astros are well-positioned for another potential World Series run. In their last game, Houston defeated Cleveland 4-3, with Justin Verlander delivering a solid six innings on the mound.
On Sunday, relief pitcher Ryan Gusto is set to make his major league debut. Although not projected to be part of the postseason roster, Gusto will likely serve as an opener, allowing the Astros to evaluate other pitchers who will compete in the playoffs. The team aims to keep their key players healthy while still giving them a chance to prepare for the upcoming challenges.
Key Injuries: Chas McCormick (LF) is currently out.
Guardians Prepare for Playoff Push
Despite a recent loss to the Astros, the Cleveland Guardians remain focused on the postseason. Their defeat on Saturday ended their pursuit of the American League’s best record, but they still secure a bye in the wildcard round. The Guardians will host the first two games of the ALDS against the highest-ranked wildcard team, which could potentially be the Astros again.
As of now, Cleveland has not named a starter for Sunday. It is likely that they will utilize multiple pitchers throughout the game to maintain their rhythm before the break between the regular season and the wildcard round. Fans can expect to see their regular lineup get at least a couple of at-bats as they seek to stay sharp before their postseason matchup.
Key Injuries: Petey Halpin (CF), Trevor Stephan (RP), and Shane Bieber (SP) are currently sidelined.
Strategic Insights for Astros vs. Guardians
Predicting the outcome of this matchup is challenging, given that both teams are prioritizing player health as they approach the playoffs. However, the Guardians may have the upper hand in this game. The Astros are set to begin their wildcard series in just two days, meaning they may rest key players and utilize a lineup featuring several reserves to avoid injury. In contrast, the Guardians have a week off before their next game, making this their final opportunity to get their regulars in a competitive setting. They are likely to field their starting nine for substantial at-bats, allowing them to face off against reserve pitchers. This could lead to an early advantage for the Guardians, especially if they remain in contention for the top seed based on the Yankees’ performance.
