MLB
Guardians Choose Shawn Armstrong to Open ALCS Game 4
Cleveland plans a bullpen game while Tampa Bay turns toward Nick Martinez, with weather still part of Friday’s pitching calculations.
Shawn Armstrong will open Game 4 of the American League Championship Series for Cleveland, which is planning to piece the game together from its bullpen. Tampa Bay is expected to use Nick Martinez as the clubs prepare for Friday’s meeting at Progressive Field.
The Guardians lead the series 2-1 following Thursday’s 3-2 victory. MLB.com’s pitching update says Joey Cantillo and Tanner Bibee are among Cleveland’s options for bulk innings, with Slade Cecconi another possibility.
Armstrong’s opening assignment positions him against the right-handed bats near the top of Tampa Bay’s order, including Yandy Díaz and Junior Caminero. Martinez made a career-high 31 starts during the regular season but has remained available for different roles during the postseason.
Rain could alter the timing and the pitching choices. A postponement would give the teams access to starters on additional rest, so the announced plan should be read as Friday’s arrangement rather than an unchangeable rotation order. Fans should check the latest official game-time notice before travelling or arranging their viewing.
