Guardians face concerns over power hitting as playoffs approach
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 8:43 PM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026
The Cleveland Guardians, in a tight race for the AL Central division title with the Chicago White Sox, are showing signs of struggle heading into the postseason. Despite a strong pitching staff, the Guardians have a significant lack of power, tied for 28th in home runs with just 147 this season. Their OPS stands at a disappointing.689, ranking 29th in Major League Baseball, which raises questions about their offensive capabilities. The Guardians’ performance will be critical as they aim for a first-round bye in the playoffs.
- •Guardians and White Sox are competing for the AL Central title.
- •Cleveland has the second-worst home run total in MLB.
- •Their OPS of.689 ranks 29th in the league.
- •Pitchers Parker Messick and Gavin Williams contribute to a solid staff.
- •The Guardians are vying for a first-round bye in the playoffs.
- 8:43 PMYahoo Sports — Guardians have same 'fatal flaw' for playoffs as Brewers, but with a lot less hope
"While the Guardians and Brewers have the same problem, Cleveland's is worse.
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