Tanner Bibee Shines: Complete Game and Shutout for the Guardians
In a display of absolute dominance, Tanner Bibee gave the Cleveland Guardians something they hadn’t experienced in six years: a complete game shutout. Bibee struck out 10 batters and did not concede any walks, allowing only two hits in the Guardians’ 4-0 victory over the Chicago White Sox. This crucial performance helped Cleveland stay in the fight for a spot in the American League Wild Card. The pitcher, visibly satisfied, highlighted the importance of not giving up walks above the number of strikeouts achieved.Bibee might be reaching his peak at a crucial time for Cleveland, which is chasing Seattle in the American League wild card race. Although he had a season start with ups and downs, his performance on Friday was impeccable, confusing the White Sox lineup. His change of speed was key from the start, setting the stage for the rest of his pitches. “Finally,” Bibee joked, referring to the work he does weekly between each outing. “Obviously, it’s been a year of ups and downs, but it worked today.” This was Cleveland’s first complete shutout since September 10, 2019, when Zach Plesac achieved the feat against the Los Angeles Angels. Bibee, known for his fondness for Chipotle and for eating there before each game, allowed consecutive singles in the third inning, but managed to escape unscathed with a double play to end the inning. He retired 18 of the last 20 batters he faced, highlighting Nolan Jones’ spectacular catch for the final out. Cleveland (76-71) has won seven of its last eight games, including Bibee’s last two starts.“Not giving up walks for sure,” Bibee commented, who completed the game for the second time this season. “I hate giving up walks, and it’s a beautiful thing when both things happen at the same time.”
Tanner Bibee
