Guardians’ Matt Festa Decision Raises Questions After Cade Smith Call
The Cleveland Guardians wanted Cade Smith to get the last three outs on Thursday night in ALDS Game 4 in Chicago against the White Sox. Smith had already been in the game, and his pitch count was rising in what has been a busy stretch for him. The Guardians held a five-run lead. The question […] The post Guardians’ Matt Festa Decision Raises Questions After Cade Smith Call appeared first on HEAVY.
DETROIT, Michigan - May 21, 2026 - Cleveland Guardians manager faced criticism after leaving star closer Cade Smith in too long during ALDS Game 4 against the Chicago White Sox. Smith had already been pitching and his pitch count was mounting. The Guardians were leading five runs at the time. Fans questioned why Matt Festa, a relief pitcher, was not brought in to finish the game.
Festa had not yet thrown a pitch in the postseason that year, having made his last appearance in the regular season a month prior. The article raises questions about the trust the Guardians place in their bullpen and whether Festa truly has a role in the postseason.
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