Paul Sullivan: Grant Taylor and White Sox relievers keep doing ‘our little thing’ in Game 1 win

Cleveland — Grant Taylor, the Chicago White Sox closer, made a remarkable comeback in Game 1 of the American League Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians. After a heartbreaking loss in the previous game, Taylor returned to the mound and delivered a four-inning save, striking out six batters without walking any. His performance marked the most strikeouts in a postseason relief appearance without a walk.

Shortstop Colson Montgomery praised Taylor, stating that the team felt confident in his ability to handle late-inning situations. The White Sox continued their strategy of out-bullpening their opponents, with five pitchers combining for a shutout, allowing only three hits and recording 12 strikeouts. The team's reliance on their bullpen, which set a major-league record with 766 innings this year, has been a key factor in their success.

Veteran Bryan Hudson stepped up as a reliever in the third inning, going scoreless after allowing bases-loaded threat Chase DeLauter to fly to left. Anthony Kay made crucial plays by getting hitters out with a flyout and pitching a perfect sixth inning. Taylor's four-inning save was the sixth of his career in a postseason game, joining an elite group of relievers.

While Hudson was credited with the win, the White Sox bullpen demonstrated a cohesive and interchangeable approach, with each member stepping up when needed. This unique strategy might set a precedent for future postseason baseball.