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Minnesota Twins: Breaking Down the 2022 AL Central Rivals-Cleveland

By Otto Johnson

Cleveland Guardians infielder Jose Ramirez prepares for his at bat against the Oakland Athletics during spring training. (Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports)
Cleveland Guardians infielder Jose Ramirez prepares for his at bat against the Oakland Athletics during spring training. (Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Shane Bieber throws a pitch during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners. (Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports) /

Minnesota Twins: AL Central Rival Projected Rotation and Bullpen

Rotation

  1. Shane Bieber
  2. Cal Quantrill
  3. Aaron Civale
  4. Zach Plesac
  5. Triston McKenzie

Bullpen

  • Emmanuel Clase
  • James Karinchak
  • Nick Sandlin
  • Bryan Shaw
  • Anthony Gose
  • Sam Hentges
  • Trevor Stephen
  • Logan Allen
  • Eli Morgan
  • Konnor Pilkington

All of Cleveland’s playoff chances rest on the fate of the rotation. When this group is pitching at its best, it’s one of the best in baseball. Shane Bieber is one of the best pitchers in baseball, and when they’re on, Aaron Civale, Zach Plesac, Cal Quantrill, and Triston McKenzie form a formidable rotation.

On the bullpen side, Emmanuel Clase is an elite closer. James Karinchak, who’s hurt to start the year, Nick Sandlin, Bryan Shaw, and converted outfielder Anthony Gose are solid, but the rest of the bullpen is completely up in the air.

Unfortunately, injuries and ineffectiveness killed this team last year. If they struggle to recover their form, this team could struggle to reach 80 wins. The Guardians will once again rely on their pitching, hoping to not repeat another once-in-a-century rash of injuries to the rotation.

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