Guardians defeat A's 4-2 on June 22, 2025, as Luis Ortiz strikes out 10. José Ramírez makes history with his 900th career RBI in the key victory. Recap.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
In a night filled with electric pitching and historic milestones, the Cleveland Guardians secured a much-needed 4-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics. Luis Ortiz was simply untouchable, delivering a masterful performance on the mound, while franchise cornerstone José Ramírez etched his name deeper into the team's record books. It was a complete team win that provided a major spark on a grueling nine-game road trip.
With his run-scoring single in the second inning, José Ramírez reached the 900-RBI milestone, becoming just the 13th player in franchise history to do so.
After a couple of rough starts, Luis Ortiz looked like a bona fide ace on Saturday night. The right-hander was in complete control, carving up the A's lineup for six shutout innings. He allowed just two hits and two walks while matching his season high with 10 strikeouts. Generating 12 swings-and-misses, Ortiz (4-8) was efficient and overpowering, reminding everyone of the top-tier potential he possesses. It was his third scoreless start of the season and a massive confidence booster for both him and the team.
While Ortiz handled the pitching, José Ramírez handled the history. Going 3-for-4 with a walk, J-Ram's biggest moment came on an RBI single in the second inning that marked the 900th run batted in of his incredible career. The hit puts him in elite company within the Guardians franchise. It's just another milestone in a stellar season for Ramírez, who continues to lead the team in nearly every major offensive category, including home runs (13), steals (20), runs (43), and is tied for the lead in RBIs (36).
The Guardians' offense did all its damage in one explosive frame. The four-run second inning proved to be all the support Ortiz would need. The rally was ignited by back-to-back RBI doubles from Bo Naylor and Johnathan Rodríguez, showcasing the power at the bottom of the order. Steven Kwan and José Ramírez followed up with RBI singles to cap the scoring. On the back end, the bullpen was solid, with Emmanuel Clase shutting the door in the ninth for his 17th save of the season, pitching a perfect frame on just 12 pitches.
With the win, the Guardians climb back over .500 to 38-37 and have a chance to secure a series victory on this long road trip. All eyes now turn to Sunday's finale, where Slade Cecconi (2-3, 4.15 ERA) will take the mound against Oakland's JP Sears. A win would be a huge momentum boost as the team looks to finish this nine-game trek on a high note.
