The Cleveland Guardians began the week with uncertainty surrounding two key players but received a welcome boost ahead of their weekend series against the Colorado Rockies in Denver. Jo Adell made his return on Thursday after recovering from a knee injury, while Chase DeLauter rejoined the lineup Friday following a three-game absence due to a hamstring strain.
Both Adell and DeLauter made significant contributions in Cleveland’s commanding 9-1 victory over Colorado on Friday night. Adell recorded two hits, and DeLauter added a single along with a walk. The Guardians will aim to secure the three-game series when the teams face off again Saturday evening.
Cleveland plans to start Tanner Bibee (4-13, 4.01 ERA) against rookie Gabriel Hughes (0-4, 6.69 ERA) for the second game of the series. Bibee will be pitching in Colorado for the first time, having made his major league debut against the Rockies on April 26, 2023, when he earned his first win by allowing just one run over 5 2/3 innings.
Meanwhile, Hughes is still searching for his first major league victory. He debuted in relief against San Francisco on July 3 and ended July with an 0-3 record. However, Hughes has struggled in August, posting a 12.83 ERA over three appearances, surrendering seven earned runs in each of his last two starts and lasting only four innings in both.
DeLauter had initially suffered a hamstring tweak during a 5-0 loss to San Diego on Sunday, which caused him to miss the subsequent three-game series against San Francisco. His return to right field at the spacious Coors Field was a positive sign for the Guardians. Manager Stephen Vogt praised DeLauter’s communication and the medical staff’s quick response, noting the player’s dedication to recovery and preparation.
“He has done a great job staying in the training room and weight room, making sure he’s ready,” Vogt said. “We’ve also used him as a designated hitter frequently, especially after heavy days in the field.”
On the Rockies’ side, they entered the weekend series after being swept in three games by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite the losses, there were some encouraging developments. Reliever Jaden Hill returned Wednesday after nearly two months out and pitched a scoreless inning. Additionally, Mickey Moniak has continued to shine in his second season with Colorado, hitting his 20th home run Wednesday to send the game into extra innings. Moniak is on track to surpass his career high of 24 homers set last season, with five weeks and 34 games remaining.
“That’s just what Mick has done for us since he arrived in 2025,” Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer said. “He’s such a huge part of what we do, and I’m proud of him.”
Friday night also saw the return of Kyle Karros from the seven-day concussion injured list. The third baseman contributed with a single and a walk. However, shortstop Ezequiel Tovar left the game in the fourth inning due to illness, and his status remains day-to-day.
