My track record is quite clear on Gabriel Arias… so someone has to tell me if I can celebrate the Guardians’ win today over the Twins, 5-2.
I have emphasized that Arias being a bottom 10 hitter in MLB since his debut makes him an expendable player. I lost my mind when he struck out five times and didn’t bother to run to first recently, and similarly when he lolipopped throws to first base. Since June 29th, entering today’s game, Arias had a 109 wRC+ and he hit an absolute bomb today to start off the scoring:
I don’t think Arias is a player you reserve a roster spot for on a playoff team. However, these hot streaks are great and his power is a welcome addition when it shows up for this team. He also made a great play on a bunt in the 8th, showing off that laser cannon of an arm.
Props to you, Arias. Please continue to make me look like an absolute idiot. Also, I regret not giving more grace for the mental strain you must be dealing with regarding the earthquakes in Venezuela.
Gavin Williams was very good today, perfect through four, and then seemingly rattled when Royce Lewis attempted to break up the perfecto with two straight bunt attempts and a bloop hit. That is fair play. But, Williams doesn’t have to LIKE it, and he clearly did not. Though he gave up a run, he got out of it allowing only one, and screaming to himself as he left the mound. I appreciated the competitive fire. Williams allowed a home run in the 7th to Lewis, and Lewis robbed Travis Bazzana of a two-run double, cementing further his status for me of “Most Hated AL Central Rival Player.” I do not enjoy watching him. Williams struck out 11 and I hope this is a sign that he is ready for a good second half. The Guardians will need it.
The Guardians also had home runs from Chase DeLauter who appears locked in:
And Patrick Bailey of all people!
And a two-run double from Brayan Rocchio:
Hunter Gaddis and Cade Smith gave us a resumption of normal bullpen excellence and the Guardians left town still ahead of the Twins and able to put those first two terrible games behind them. Now, to the incredibly hot Marlins and then the All-Star break. Long live Arias.
