Takeaways From Cleveland Guardians Series Win Over Nationals

Carlos Santana Leads The Way

Don't let Carlos Santana's slow start to the year fool you. This 39-year-old still has a little bit left in the tank and showed that against the Nationals.

Santana hit .357 (5-for-14) over the last three games, including a three-hit performance in the series opener.

One encouraging sign moving forward is that Santana also demonstrated some pop with these hits.

His three-run homer in the second game opened up the scoring, and his three-run double in the finale tied up the game, setting up Cleveland's comeback.

Santana is notorious for being a slow starter, and this series could indicate he's finally starting to get going.

Cade Smith Needs A Well-Deserved Off Day

The Guardians have heavily relied on their bullpen to start the season.

A lot of that workload has fallen on Cade Smith.

The lockdown reliever has been stellar for the Guardians all season, and even has three saves to his name, too. However, it's becoming clear the Cade needs a well-deserved off day; maybe two.

Smith pitched in the series opener and, uncharacteristically, gave up four earned runs on three hits and one walk. Even though he didn't give up any runs in the finale, Cade still allowed a few base runners in his 0.1 inning of work.

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