The Cleveland Guardians have made a bold decision as they move into the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the formidable New York Yankees, appointing right-hander Alex Cobb as their Game 1 starter. This choice is as much about Cobb’s potential as it is about the circumstances surrounding his journey through an injury-riddled season. On Monday, he will face off against Yankees’ lefty Carlos Rodon, setting the stage for a compelling matchup.
Cobb’s season has been fraught with challenges. Following hip surgery that sidelined him after the 2023 season, he grappled with shoulder inflammation during spring training, ultimately delaying his debut until August 9. The fact that Cobb only made three starts during the regular season highlights the tenuous nature of his return. However, in his last regular-season outing on September 1, Cobb showcased flashes of brilliance, taking a perfect game into the seventh inning before an infield single disrupted his momentum. This performance not only reaffirmed his capabilities but also set a high expectation for his postseason contributions.
Despite that impressive outing, bad luck continued to plague the veteran with a torn fingernail and blister, sidelining him for a month. Such setbacks could have deterred younger players, but at 37, Cobb has shown immense grit that speaks to his experience in the major leagues.
Cobb’s first taste of postseason action came in Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Detroit Tigers, a matchup that ended in disappointment for the Guardians. He allowed two runs on three hits across three innings, ultimately contributing to the team’s 3-0 defeat. Despite the loss, Cobb’s experience and capacity for adaptation could be pivotal in the high-pressure environment of the ALCS. His ability to throw 41 pitches in that outing while managing post-injury limitations demonstrates a readiness to expand his role.
Over his 13-year career in Major League Baseball, Cobb has amassed a record of 79 wins, 76 losses, and a 3.84 ERA in 233 starts. His track record illustrates a player who has not only been effective but resilient across various teams, including the Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Angels, and San Francisco Giants before his recent trade to the Guardians. Remarkably, he earned All-Star honors in 2023, validating his potential as a significant asset to the Guardians despite the injuries.
The trade to the Guardians while still on the injured list illustrated the team’s confidence in Cobb’s abilities, believing he could turn his fortunes around when healthy. Now, as both the Guardians and Cobb stand on the brink of potential success in the postseason, all eyes will be on this experienced right-hander to deliver the performance that could change the trajectory of the ALCS.