Guardians top the A's 8-6 on July 19, 2025, as Johnathan Rodríguez's first MLB homer and a gutsy Slade Cecconi start seal a thrilling home victory.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you thought you could relax, Progressive Field turned into a nail-biter. After building a commanding 7-0 lead, the Cleveland Guardians had to fend off a furious late rally from the Oakland Athletics to secure an 8-6 victory on Saturday night. It was a game of milestones, featuring Slade Cecconi's gutsy, career-long outing for his first home win and Johnathan Rodríguez's unforgettable first MLB home run, as the Guards continue to wash away the memory of that recent 10-game skid.
That's a moment you dream about your whole life, rounding the bases after your first big league homer. The ball just jumped off the bat.
For eight innings, Slade Cecconi was dealing. The right-hander was in complete control, cruising toward what looked like an easy win. He delivered a career-long 8 1/3 innings, a monumental effort that earned him his first-ever win at Progressive Field. While the A's finally got to him in the ninth, forcing an early exit, his performance was the foundation of this victory. He kept Oakland off the board long enough for the offense to build what seemed like an insurmountable lead, finishing with two strikeouts on eight hits. It wasn't a perfect ending, but it was exactly the kind of gritty, innings-eating start this team needs.
The bats are officially sizzling. The Guardians' offense, which has been on a tear lately, provided the early fireworks. The biggest blast came from Johnathan Rodríguez, who launched his first career major league home run, a moment that sent the dugout and the 34,691 fans into a frenzy. Not to be outdone, David Fry added a homer of his own. The ever-reliable José Ramírez chipped in with two extra-base hits, and Brayan Rocchio broke the game open in the fourth with a clutch two-run double. This offensive surge is no fluke; it's a trend that's turning the season around.
After the A's made it uncomfortably close in the ninth, Stephen Vogt called on the closer. Emmanuel Clase did what he does best, slamming the door for his 21st save. Despite allowing an RBI double, he struck out two to end the threat and preserve the win. On the roster front, the team made a couple of moves before the game, recalling RHP Nic Enright from Triple-A Columbus to add a fresh arm to the bullpen. In good news for the infield, shortstop Gabriel Arias is taking a positive step, heading to Columbus to begin a rehab assignment as he works his way back.
From a 10-game losing streak to winning seven of their last eight, the Guardians are playing with renewed confidence and swagger. The offense is clicking, young pitchers are stepping up, and the team is finding ways to win tense ballgames. They'll look to keep the momentum rolling and secure a series win against the A's tomorrow. If this week is any indication, the dog days of summer are about to get very exciting in Cleveland.
