Cleveland seized a victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday, sparked by José Ramírez’s powerful home run during a productive fourth inning. Gavin Williams showcased remarkable pitching, surrendering only a single hit over 6 2/3 innings, leading the Cleveland Guardians to a 4-2 triumph.
Ramírez broke the deadlock in the fourth inning, taking a slider from Angels’ starter Jack Kochanowicz, and sending it soaring into the right-center stands. This marked Ramírez’s team-leading 11th home run and bolstered Cleveland’s lead to 2-0. Moments later, Nolan Jones contributed with a two-run single that capitalized on a bases-loaded opportunity, putting the Guardians firmly in control as they secured two out of three victories in the weekend series.
Williams, delivering an exceptional performance, flirted with a no-hitter until Zach Neto’s single emerged in the sixth. Williams, 25, finished his outing allowing two unearned runs, issuing two walks, and striking out six batters. This game stood out as his first in 44 major league starts where he maintained a hitless record through five innings.
Closing pitcher Emmanuel Clase effectively concluded proceedings by dispatching the Angels’ lineup in the ninth, earning his 13th save of the season.
A pivotal moment came when Angels’ star Mike Trout, initially absent from the starting lineup, entered in the seventh inning and delivered an RBI single. Trout, who’s been easing back into action following a month-long recovery from a knee injury, put on an impressive series display, racking up five hits in 10 at-bats.
Ramírez remains a standout player, sustaining an on-base streak of 28 consecutive games. His batting prowess is underscored by a .394 average, with six home runs, and 15 RBIs since the streak initiated on April 30.
Looking ahead, the Angels continue their current road journey into Boston, where they will face the Red Sox. Southpaw Tyler Anderson, with a 2-2 record and 3.39 ERA, is slated to pitch on Monday. Meanwhile, the Guardians head to New York for a three-game bout against the Yankees, with right-hander Tanner Bibee, holding a 4-5 record and 3.86 ERA, poised to take the mound on Tuesday.