Tag Archives: MLB

⚾ History at The Corner

Posted on by

🏟️ Jacobs Field: The Ballpark That Revitalized Cleveland Baseball

Published: May 7, 2025

In the heart of downtown Cleveland stands Progressive Field, a modern baseball cathedral that has been home to the Cleveland Guardians since 1994. Originally known as Jacobs Field, this ballpark not only provided a new venue for baseball but also played a pivotal role in revitalizing the franchise and the city’s enthusiasm for the sport.

⚾ A New Era Begins

Before 1994, the Cleveland baseball team played at Cleveland Stadium, a vast and aging structure that often felt cavernous and lacked the intimacy fans craved. Recognizing the need for a change, the team, under the ownership of Richard Jacobs, initiated the construction of a new ballpark. Jacobs Field opened its doors on April 4, 1994, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Cleveland baseball.

📈 Immediate Impact

The opening of Jacobs Field coincided with a resurgence in the team’s performance. The mid to late 1990s saw the team become a powerhouse in the American League, with multiple playoff appearances and two World Series berths in 1995 and 1997. The intimate setting of the new ballpark provided a stark contrast to the old stadium, allowing fans to feel closer to the action and fostering a more electric atmosphere.

🎟️ The Sellout Streak

One of the most remarkable achievements associated with Jacobs Field was the consecutive sellout streak. From June 12, 1995, to April 4, 2001, the team sold out 455 straight games, setting a Major League Baseball record at the time. This streak was a testament to the team’s success on the field and the fans’ unwavering support.

🏟️ Evolution into Progressive Field

In 2008, the ballpark was renamed Progressive Field following a naming rights agreement with Progressive Corporation. Despite the name change, the essence of the ballpark remained the same. Over the years, the stadium has undergone several renovations to enhance the fan experience, including updated seating areas, improved concessions, and the addition of family-friendly zones.

🌆 A Catalyst for Downtown Revitalization

The construction of Jacobs Field was more than just a new home for baseball; it was a catalyst for the revitalization of downtown Cleveland. The ballpark spurred economic development in the surrounding areas, leading to new restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It played a significant role in transforming the downtown area into a vibrant destination for both locals and visitors.

🔗 Further Reading

Jacobs Field, now Progressive Field, stands as a symbol of Cleveland’s enduring love for baseball and the city’s resilience. Its legacy is etched not just in the bricks and steel but in the memories of the fans who have cheered, celebrated, and rallied behind their team within its walls.

⚾ All Things Guardians

Posted on by

🚨 Injury Woes Mount for Guardians as Key Arms Remain Sidelined

Date: May 7, 2025

By: The Corner Wire Staff

The Cleveland Guardians are navigating a challenging stretch in the 2025 season, grappling with a series of injuries that have sidelined several key pitchers. As the team strives to maintain its competitive edge, the absence of these players is being keenly felt.

🩺 Current Injury Report

  • Shane Bieber: The ace right-hander is on the 60-day injured list due to a right UCL tear. He threw a live batting practice session on May 2 at the Arizona Complex, but manager Stephen Vogt indicated that Bieber still “has a ways to go” before returning to game action. [MLB.com]
  • Trevor Stephan: Also on the 60-day IL following UCL reconstruction surgery. Stephan threw live batting practice on May 2, with another session planned as part of his ongoing rehab. [MLB.com]
  • Paul Sewald: The veteran reliever is on the 15-day IL with a right posterior deltoid strain. He suffered the injury on April 28 and will be re-evaluated at two-week intervals to assess his progress. [MLB.com]
  • Erik Sabrowski: The left-hander is on the 60-day IL due to left elbow inflammation. After experiencing increased soreness in late April, he took a break from mound activity but has since returned to throwing and is expected to resume mound work this week. [MLB.com]
  • Slade Cecconi: On the 15-day IL with a left oblique strain since March 27. In his second rehab start with Triple-A Columbus on May 6, Cecconi threw 61 pitches over four innings, allowing three runs on five hits. He’s scheduled to start again on May 11. [MLB.com]

🔍 Impact on the Team

The absence of these pitchers has tested the depth of the Guardians’ bullpen and starting rotation. Bieber’s role as the staff ace means his prolonged absence leaves a significant void. Stephan and Sewald’s injuries have further strained the bullpen, requiring less experienced pitchers to step into high-leverage situations.

Manager Stephen Vogt has emphasized the importance of a “next man up” mentality, but the cumulative effect of these injuries is evident in the team’s recent performances. The Guardians have had to rely heavily on their farm system and depth players to navigate this period.

🗓️ Looking Ahead

As the Guardians continue their series against the Washington Nationals, the team hopes for positive updates on their injured players. The upcoming schedule doesn’t offer much respite, making the potential return of any of these pitchers a significant boost.

Fans can stay updated on the latest injury news and roster moves through the Guardians’ official channels and MLB.com’s dedicated injury report.

⚾ THE CORNER RUNDOWN: Cleveland Guardians VS. Washington Nationals GAME 2 – May 6, 2025

Posted on by

⚾ The Corner Rundown: Guardians Dominate Nationals in Game 2 Blowout

Final Score: Cleveland Guardians 9, Washington Nationals 1
Date: May 6, 2025
Location: Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.

🔥 Key Performers

📖 Game Summary

After a narrow loss in Game 1, the Guardians bounced back with a commanding 9-1 victory over the Nationals in the nightcap. Carlos Santana broke the scoreless tie with a three-run homer in the sixth inning, igniting a late-game offensive surge. Daniel Schneemann and Austin Hedges added solo shots in the seventh and ninth innings, respectively. Ben Lively delivered a solid start, allowing just one run over 5.1 innings to earn the win.

📊 Notable Stats

  • Guardians Hits: 8
  • Nationals Hits: 4
  • Home Runs: CLE – 3 (Santana, Schneemann, Hedges); WSH – 1 (Adams)
  • Winning Pitcher: Ben Lively (2-2)
  • Losing Pitcher: Brad Lord (1-4)

🎥 Watch the Highlights

Check out the highlights from Game 2:

🗓️ Next Game Details

Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 12:05 PM ET
Matchup: Cleveland Guardians vs. Washington Nationals
Starting Pitchers: TBD

⚾ All Things Guardians

Posted on by

⚾ Guardians’ Injury Bug Bites Again: Ramírez, Bibee, and Bieber Updates

Published: May 5, 2025

The Cleveland Guardians are navigating a challenging stretch of the 2025 season, contending with a series of injuries to key players. As the team strives to maintain its competitive edge in the AL Central, updates on José Ramírez, Tanner Bibee, and Shane Bieber are at the forefront of discussions.

🩹 José Ramírez’s Ankle Sprain

On May 2, during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays, star third baseman José Ramírez exited in the third inning after sustaining a mild right ankle sprain. The injury occurred when Ramírez tripped over first base following an infield single, with a throw from pitcher Chris Bassitt hitting him on the back of the shoulder. Despite the fall, Ramírez was able to walk off the field under his own power. At the time, he was 2-for-2, raising his season batting average to .274 with five home runs and 15 RBIs over 31 games. The Guardians are exercising caution with Ramírez’s recovery, emphasizing the importance of his long-term health. (Reuters, Sports Illustrated)

⚠️ Tanner Bibee’s Early Exit

Starting pitcher Tanner Bibee left the May 4 game against the Blue Jays after five innings due to leg cramps. Bibee allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits, striking out three. The Guardians’ bullpen managed to preserve the lead, with closer Emmanuel Clase securing his seventh save. Bibee’s condition is being monitored, and further updates are expected as the team assesses his readiness for upcoming starts. (MLB.com)

🛠️ Shane Bieber’s Rehabilitation Progress

Right-handed pitcher Shane Bieber continues his recovery from a right UCL tear that placed him on the 60-day injured list retroactive to March 24. On May 2, Bieber threw a live batting practice session at the team’s Arizona complex, marking a positive step in his rehabilitation. Manager Stephen Vogt noted that while the session went well, Bieber still has progress to make before returning to game action. The team anticipates a midseason return for the former Cy Young Award winner. (MLB.com)

📊 Team Outlook

Despite these injury setbacks, the Guardians hold a 20-14 record, placing them second in the AL Central, 1.5 games behind the Detroit Tigers. The team’s resilience is evident as they continue to compete effectively, with contributions from both seasoned players and emerging talent. The upcoming series against the Washington Nationals will test the depth of the roster as the Guardians aim to maintain their momentum. (Baseball-Reference)

As the season progresses, the Guardians’ ability to adapt to these challenges will be crucial in their pursuit of postseason success.