Ben Lively achieved his career-best fourth consecutive win, and Kyle Manzardo’s blooper two-run single helped the Cleveland Guardians secure a 3-2 victory over the Washington Nationals on Saturday.
Lively (5-2) pitched for 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs and five hits while striking out four and walking one. The experienced right-hander, who has played for four teams since entering the majors in 2017 and also spent time pitching in South Korea from 2019-21, attributes his success to simplicity.
“I’m just focusing on throwing strikes, and it’s working well for me,” Lively commented. “I stay prepared and rely on my fastball when in doubt.”
The Guardians extended their winning streak at Progressive Field to nine games, boasting an MLB-best home record of 20-6 this season. The first two games of this series were sold out, providing a significant home-field advantage for Cleveland.
“It’s incredible to see so many fans showing up every night,” remarked Manzardo, a rookie first baseman. “Having that support really helps us perform better at home.”
This win marks the Guardians’ 12th victory in their last 15 games, maintaining their lead in the AL Central division.
Manzardo’s two-out single in the first inning drove in José Ramírez and Josh Naylor, giving Cleveland an early lead against Nationals rookie lefty Mitchell Parker (4-3).
“I didn’t expect it,” Manzardo admitted with a laugh, referring to his hit dropping between four fielders. “I hit it, and somehow it found a gap in the outfield.”
Ramirez scored from second base on a wild pitch in the third inning, securing the decisive run. Ramirez, who had two hits and two runs scored in the game, showcased his hustle and determination on the basepaths.
“Once I saw the ball bouncing, I knew I had a chance to score,” Ramirez said through a translator. “I just kept pushing, and it paid off.”
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt praised Ramirez’s performance, emphasizing his passion and work ethic on the field. “Ramirez is a joy to watch,” Vogt said. “He plays hard and always gives his best. He never fails to impress me.”
David Fry extended his streak of reaching base safely to 19 consecutive games, contributing with a double, a walk, and getting hit by a pitch.
Emmanuel Clase sealed the victory for the Guardians with a flawless ninth inning, earning his 18th save in 21 opportunities.
The Nationals scored both of their runs against Lively in the fourth inning, with Joey Meneses driving in the first run on a groundout and Jesse Winker adding an RBI single.
