NEW YORK — The Cleveland Guardians have made a roster adjustment for the AL Championship Series by removing pitcher Alex Cobb after he sustained an injury during the series opener. Right-hander Ben Lively has been brought in as his replacement, marking him as the team’s top pitcher from the regular season.

Cobb was forced to exit Monday’s game, which resulted in a 5-2 defeat to the New York Yankees, after only 2 2/3 innings on the field. He experienced hip tightness combined with a back spasm that ultimately led to his disqualification from further postseason appearances.

Ben Lively, the 32-year-old right-handed pitcher, had a solid regular season, achieving a record of 13 wins and 10 losses while maintaining a 3.81 ERA over 29 starts. His last game on the mound was against Houston on September 28, taking place just before the end of the regular season.

As for Cobb, his postseason statistics now show he has not yet found success, falling to 0-2 with a troubling 7.94 ERA in his playoff performances. His attempts to contribute were hampered this year due to recurrent injuries. After undergoing hip surgery on October 31, he made a delayed comeback with Cleveland after being traded from San Francisco at the July 30 trade deadline.

Cobb made his season debut on August 9 but faced further setbacks just after two games due to a tear in his right index finger nail. He had a successful six-inning performance against Pittsburgh on September 1, where he did not give up an earned run. However, shortly after, he landed back on the injured list due to issues with a blister on his right middle finger, which cut his regular season short.