Rookie Chase DeLauter delivered a breakout performance as the Cleveland Guardians defeated the Chicago Cubs 4-1 in their home opener.
Big Seventh Inning Seals the Win
The game turned in the seventh inning when Gabriel Arias hit a go-ahead solo home run. Just three batters later, DeLauter launched a two-run homer to extend the lead.
DeLauter finished 3-for-4, adding an RBI single earlier in the game to tie the score. His five home runs now tie him for the MLB lead.
Strong Pitching Effort
Cleveland’s pitching staff held the Cubs in check throughout the game. Starter Joey Cantillo allowed just one run over 5 1/3 innings while striking out six.
Reliever Connor Brogdon earned the win with a perfect seventh inning, and Cade Smith closed it out with a scoreless ninth for the save.
Cubs Take Early Lead but Fade
Chicago struck first in the third inning after back-to-back doubles by Pete Crow-Armstrong and Miguel Amaya.
However, the Cubs couldn’t build on that momentum. Starter Cade Horton exited early with a forearm issue and is expected to be placed on the injured list.
Guardians Respond and Pull Away
The Guardians tied the game in the fifth when DeLauter singled in a run. From there, Cleveland’s offense came alive late, supported by timely pitching and defense.
Jose Ramirez added two hits as Cleveland improved to above .500.
Game Notes
This marked Cleveland’s 126th home opener, continuing a long franchise tradition. Weather was also a factor, with heavy rain falling early in the game, though play continued without delay.
