Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Guardians Picks and Predictions July 9th 2024

Guardians Look to Awaken Bats vs. Tigers

On Monday, the Cleveland Guardians were defeated 1-0 to begin their four-game series against the Detroit Tigers. Cleveland was shut out for the sixth time this season, with just three hits, all singles. As the Tigers extended their winning streak to four games, the game’s lone run was scored by an error, highlighting the Guardians’ ineffectiveness offensively.

Ben Lively’s Role

Ben Lively( 8- 4,3.14 ERA) will take the mound for Cleveland on Tuesday, hoping to continue his string of quality starts. Lively has been a affable surprise for the Guardians this season, showcasing consistency and skill. In his last two outings, he held the Kansas City Royals to two runs on six hits over six innings and limited the Chicago White Sox to three runs on six hits over six frames.

Lively attributes his success to his unique pitching style, which focuses on location and variety rather than overpowering hitters. “You have to stay honest,” he told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “Everyone is a different pitcher. I try to locate and mix it up. Other guys try to blow doors. Just pitch who you are. Be your guy.”

Lively’s Journey

Lively’s journey to his current form has been unexpected. The 32-year-old veteran split last season between Cincinnati and the minor leagues, posting a 4-7 record with a 5.38 ERA in 19 games (12 starts) for the Reds. The Guardians signed him to a one-year, $750,000 contract in December, and he has made the most of this opportunity.

“I mean, straight up I could have been here for two weeks. That’s just the way it goes,” Lively said. “I just figured a couple of fastball locations out. Had a couple of good games. I just didn’t want to look back. It was just getting that opportunity. Foot on the gas. That’s the only thing I’m thinking about. One speed. Let’s go.”

Lively’s mental approach has also evolved, allowing him to push past doubts and throw with conviction. “I feel like all that (doubt) has been eliminated from my game plan,” he said. “I’m just throwing everything with conviction. I’m throwing everything as hard as I can. Even though it’s not that hard, but I’m still throwing it hard.”

Kenta Maeda’s Struggles

On the other side, the Tigers will start right-hander Kenta Maeda (2-5, 6.71 ERA), who has struggled significantly this season. Signed to a two-year, $24 million contract as a free agent last offseason, Maeda has not lived up to expectations, failing to secure a win since May 24.

Maeda’s performances have been inconsistent, allowing five or more runs in five games this year. His last outing was particularly rough, as he gave up nine runs in 3 2/3 innings against the Minnesota Twins on Thursday.

“That has to do with how I pitched, especially with an early lead that our team gave me,” Maeda said. “I just feel bad for the team. I feel like I let the team down.”

Maeda’s Need for Improvement

Maeda’s struggles have been exacerbated by his inability to put away hitters, especially with two strikes. “I have to be able to put away guys, especially with two strikes,” he said. “Those pitches with two strikes have to be better. My strikeout rate has gone down from last year (from 27 percent to 17 percent). If I can start making better two-strike pitches, that rate will go back up.”

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The 36-year-old pitcher has a mixed record against the Guardians, with a 3-1 record and a 5.45 ERA in seven career starts. However, his last encounter with Cleveland was disastrous, as he allowed seven runs on five hits and three walks in just two innings on May 7.

Conclusion

The Guardians will rely on Ben Lively’s continued strong performances to recover from their offensive woes and hope to exploit Kenta Maeda’s weaknesses. Cleveland has a chance to regain their offensive momentum and secure crucial victories in the series against the Tigers. In this crucial matchup, both teams will need to address their recent difficulties.