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Guardians use Gavin Williams to close out Game 4 against Braves

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 10, 2026, 4:32 AM

Last updated Oct 10, 2026

Guardians use Gavin Williams to close out Game 4 against Braves

Summary

The Cleveland Guardians faced the Atlanta Braves in a pivotal playoff matchup on October 9, 2026. With a 9-5 lead in the bottom of the ninth, the Guardians sent starter Gavin Williams to the mound to relieve struggling closer Cade Smith. Williams secured three consecutive outs, ensuring the Guardians avoid elimination and force a decisive Game 5. Former White Sox catcher AJ Pierzynski compared the Guardians' decision to the Braves' earlier move with Chris Sale, highlighting the risks taken in crucial playoff moments. Williams is set to start Game 5 despite his relief appearance.

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Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Guardians lead 9-5 in bottom of the ninth against Braves.
•Gavin Williams replaces struggling closer Cade Smith.
•Williams gets three outs to secure Game 4 victory.
•Series tied, setting up a decisive Game 5.
•Williams will start Game 5 despite pitching in relief.

Latest Updates

4:32 AMYahoo Sports — Analyst compares Guardians’ Gavin Williams Game 4 move to Braves’ Chris Sale decision

What they're saying

"
In the playoffs, teams that have their backs against the wall couldn’t care less about who will pitch in a potential next game, if they even get to that point. All that matters is sealing the deal and living to fight another day. On Thursday, the Cleveland Guardians, despite being up by four runs in the bottom of the ninth, elected to send Gavin […] The post Analyst compares Guardians’ Gavin Williams Game 4 move to Braves’ Chris Sale decision appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Atlanta Braves Boston Red Sox Chicago White Sox Cleveland Guardians MLB Baseball