Guardians beat Orioles 6-3 on July 22, 2025, to get back to .500. José Ramírez's hot streak continues as the team's home run barrage powers a huge comeback.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just a couple of weeks ago, things looked bleak. A 10-game losing streak had sent the Cleveland Guardians spiraling. But what a difference a dozen games make. Powered by a relentless home run barrage, the Guards capped their incredible comeback with a 6-3 victory over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday, officially climbing back to the .500 mark at 50-50 and signaling to the league that they are far from done.
The Guardians have hit 21 home runs in their last 12 games, tied for the most in Major League Baseball since July 7.
Last night's win was a perfect encapsulation of the team's new identity. The offense was relentless. José Ramírez continued his torrid pace, launching his 21st homer of the season—an incredible seventh in his last 12 games. The long ball extended the team's home run streak to 12 consecutive games, the longest such streak since 2021. But it wasn't just J-Ram. Angel Martínez was a catalyst with three hits, while Kyle Manzardo and Bryan Rocchio each chipped in with two crucial RBIs. Even the small ball was working, with Rocchio laying down a perfect sacrifice bunt to add an insurance run late. It's this balanced, powerful approach that has fans buzzing.
The climb to .500 is the real story here. This team looked lost during its 10-game slide, but they've responded by winning four of their last five since the All-Star break. The transformation has been built on power, but the pitching has held up its end of the bargain. Young lefty Joey Cantillo was impressive again, earning his second win by allowing just one run over five solid innings. He battled through four walks, but made the pitches when he needed to. Handing the ball to Emmanuel Clase for his 22nd save feels as automatic as ever. This is a complete team effort, a testament to the clubhouse culture and resilience.
This dramatic turnaround couldn't have come at a better time. With the MLB trade deadline just over a week away, the Guardians' front office has a fascinating decision to make. Do they buy, sell, or stand pat? Reports suggest they are looking to be active, targeting young, controllable hitters to bolster the lineup for this year and beyond. Names like Cubs outfield prospect Owen Caissie and Boston's dynamic Jarren Duran are being floated as 'dream fits.' Adding a player like Caissie, who has a .930 OPS in Triple-A, could solidify the outfield for years to come and provide the extra offensive punch needed for a serious playoff push.
The Guardians have fought their way back into the conversation. They've proven the doubters wrong and shown the firepower they possess. Now, all eyes turn to the front office. Will they reward this team's incredible resilience by making a move to solidify their standing? The next week will define the rest of the 2025 season, making every game and every rumor that much more important.
