Takeaways From Cleveland Guardians Series Win Over Mariners

As a team, Cleveland hit .285 (4-for-14) with runners in scoring position through the first two games of the series. It could have been better; it’s nice to see hitters get some clutch hits after a tough stretch. 

If the Guardians are going to get themselves back in the playoff race, they must keep taking advantage of these scoring opportunities.

Is Nolan Jones Finally Finding His Swing?

Better late than never, right? 

Nolan Jones admitted after Friday night’s game that he hasn’t played his best this season, and the numbers support that claim. However, you’re only as good as your last at-bat, and Jones’ last plate appearances have been rather encouraging, and one of the key reasons the Guardians won the series. 

Jones hit .300 against the Mariners (3-for-10), including two clutch hits in the series opener. The 27-year-old cut into Seattle’s lead with a solo home run and led off the ninth inning with a double, which led to a Guardians walk-off win.

Jones now has a .267 batting average and .500 slugging percentage over his last 15 games, including some clutch hits for the Guardians in that stretch. Perhaps, this is a sign he’s finally finding his swing.

Kyle Manzardo Is The Guardians’ Hottest Hitter 

If the Guardians are actually going to turn the tables and reach the playoffs this season, Kyle Manzardo is going to be at the center of that run, and he proved that with his performance against the Mariners. 

Right now, Manzardo is Cleveland’s hottest hitter and is quietly blossoming into a star. The 25-year-old slugged two home runs against the Mariners, each in Cleveland’s two wins.

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