Slade Cecconi's 7 shutout innings led the Guardians to a 3-0 win over the A's on June 23, 2025. See how the rookie's gem capped the tough road trip.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
After a grueling nine-game West Coast swing, the Cleveland Guardians found their footing Sunday thanks to a masterful performance from Slade Cecconi. The rookie pitcher silenced the Oakland Athletics, leading the Guards to a crucial 3-0 victory. While the team finished the road trip with a 4-5 record, this win provided a much-needed shot of momentum as they prepare to head back home to Cleveland.
Slade Cecconi has been lights out in June, posting a stellar 2.05 ERA with a 1.18 WHIP and 20 strikeouts over 22 dominant innings.
The story of the day was undoubtedly Slade Cecconi (3-3). In his most impressive outing as a big leaguer, he delivered a career-high seven shutout innings, scattering six singles and a walk while striking out three. It was his second consecutive win and quality start, showcasing a poise and command that has been a revelation this month. His dominance has been a key factor for the Guardians, and he's quickly becoming a reliable arm in the rotation.
The bats didn't explode, but they were opportunistic. The Guardians manufactured their first run in the second inning when Angel Martínez drew a walk, promptly stole second, and was driven in by a Gabriel Arias single. Nolan Jones followed with a double to score Arias, giving Cleveland an early 2-0 cushion. In the fifth, the ever-reliable Steven Kwan singled and was brought home by a David Fry knock, providing the final 3-0 margin. It was a classic display of timely hitting and aggressive baserunning.
Things got tense in the ninth. Emmanuel Clase, aiming for his 18th save, found himself in a bases-loaded, one-out jam. But just when it looked like the lead might slip away, 'The Clase of '25' lived up to his name, striking out Max Muncy and inducing a game-ending groundout from Lawrence Butler. It was a high-wire act that secured the win and reminded everyone why he's one of the game's elite closers.
Finishing the long West Coast trip at 4-5 isn't ideal, but ending it with a shutout win certainly takes some of the sting out. The Guardians now sit at 39-37 on the season. Monday was a quiet day on the transaction front, with no roster moves or trades announced, suggesting the front office is giving this current group a chance to build on the victory as they return to Progressive Field.
With the tough road trip in the rearview mirror, the Guardians head home with a reason for optimism. Cecconi's emergence is a major storyline to watch, and he's slated to take the mound next against the St. Louis Cardinals. Fans will be hoping this stellar pitching performance and hard-fought win can ignite a hot streak during the upcoming homestand.
