The Guardians left Rhys Hoskins and Slade Cecconi off their American League Division Series roster against the White Sox, choosing 12 pitchers and 14 position players for the series that began Saturday.
Stephen Vogt said Cleveland considered Hoskins as an extra right-handed bat against a Chicago staff with five left-handers. The club chose a 12th pitcher instead. Hoskins had missed the remainder of the regular season after going on the injured list with lower back inflammation August 19.
Cecconi made 28 appearances, including 21 starts, during the regular season. Cleveland retained all five pitchers from its season-ending rotation, with some available to work in relief.
Hoskins and Cecconi are on the taxi squad and could be activated if an injury creates a roster opening. Vogt said both remain options as the postseason continues.
Parker Messick received the Game 1 start, with Gavin Williams assigned to Game 2. TSP’s White Sox–Guardians preview has the series schedule and matchup details.
