The Cleveland Guardians’ bullpen has been a key factor in the team’s early success, with right-hander Hunter Gaddis and left-hander Tim Herrin standing out as two of the most impressive performers. Through the first 23 games of the season, the Guardians’ bullpen has compiled a 7-2 record with a remarkable 2.05 ERA, along with eight saves in 11 opportunities. Their exceptional performance has placed them at the top of the American League in strikeouts and second in batting average against, with opponents hitting a mere .186.
Gaddis and Herrin, who spent a significant portion of last season shuttling between Class AAA Columbus and Cleveland, have made a strong case for their permanent presence in the major league bullpen. Gaddis has been particularly dominant in his 12 appearances this season, with 16 strikeouts and just three walks allowed in 11 2/3 innings. The opposition is batting a feeble .132 against him. Herrin, who has also been impressive, has gone 1-0 with a 0.75 ERA in 11 games. He has allowed just one run in 11 1/3 innings, while striking out 11 and walking five. The opposition’s batting average against Herrin is also a paltry .132.
The transition to a full-time bullpen role has been a catalyst for Gaddis’s success. As a starter, he was required to conserve his energy, limiting his ability to go all out. However, in the bullpen, he can unleash his full arsenal of pitches, including his fastball, slider, changeup, and curve, to overpower hitters. His manager, Stephen Vogt, has noticed a significant change in Gaddis’s mindset, as he has embraced the mentality of a reliever, focusing on getting batters out in short, intense bursts.
Herrin, who made 56 appearances out of the bullpen last year, has demonstrated increased confidence and control over his pitches in 2023. He throws a 97 mph fastball and two effective breaking balls, a curve and a slider, from the left side. His ability to keep hitters off balance and generate weak contact has been crucial to his success. Vogt has commended Herrin’s command and aggression on the mound, attributing his improvement to a better understanding of his strengths and how to use them effectively.
While Gaddis and Herrin have been the standout performers in the Guardians’ bullpen, other pitchers have also contributed to the team’s success. Eli Morgan, currently on the injured list with a sore right shoulder, is expected to return soon and bolster the bullpen further. In his nine appearances this season, Morgan has posted a solid 1-0 record with a 2.16 ERA.
The Guardians’ bullpen has played a pivotal role in the team’s early success. With Gaddis and Herrin leading the charge, the bullpen is well-equipped to continue providing reliable and effective relief throughout the season.
