Every year, the penultimate Thursday in November is a time to celebrate and reflect on everything that you are thankful for.
With Thanksgiving here today, here are five things the Cleveland Guardians should be thankful for.
1. Two Gold Glove Winners (Again)
This season, second baseman Andrés Giménez and left fielder Steven Kwan each won their second consecutive American League Gold Glove, with Giménez becoming the first second baseman in MLB history to win a Platinum Glove.
Offensively, they were both part of the first MLB trio in 30 years who recorded at least 25 doubles, 20 stolen bases, and five triples each.
2. The Ramírez-Naylor Duo
The duo of José Ramírez and Josh Naylor were the bedrock of Cleveland’s offense this season.
The two combined to hit .293 with 41 home runs, 177 RBI, and 67 doubles, forming one of MLB’s most formidable tandems at the plate.
3. Young Pitching Studs
The Guardians had three starting pitchers make their MLB debuts this year in Logan Allen, AL Rookie of the Year runner-up Tanner Bibee, and Gavin Williams.
They threw a combined 341 strikeouts, which were tied for the most by an AL rookie trio since 2000.
4. An Abundance of Talented Prospects
From Arizona Fall League sensations Kyle Manzardo and Chase DeLauter, to Guardians Hitting and Pitching Prospects of the Year Johnathan Rodríguez and Will Dion, Cleveland’s player development system is loaded with young talent.
Other promising prospects such as Jhonkensy Noel and Juan Brito are on a fast track to make their MLB debuts soon.
5. An Undying Fanbase
From 2022 to 2023, the Guardians’ attendance increased by more than 41%.
When it comes to a city supporting its sports teams, Cleveland’s support for its teams is second to none.