The Cleveland Guardians’ bullpen was a major factor in last year’s appearance in the American League Championship Series.

With the starting rotation on shaky ground, the bullpen will need to carry a heavy load again this year.

After Monday’s 7-2 loss to the Seattle Mariners, Cleveland fans may start to worry about the back end of the bullpen.

TIME FOR CONCERN?

Emmanuel Clase enjoyed one of the best seasons of any relief pitcher in history last season.

Giving up just five earned runs all season, Clase made the All-Star team and was a candidate for the Cy Young Award.

However, Clase was very hittable in the postseason, and his first outing of the spring didn’t go well, either.

Clase pitched the fourth inning, but he only recorded two outs. He gave up two hits, a walk, and a run.

If Clase falters during the regular season, the Guardians have an insurance policy in Paul Sewald, the former closer for the Mariners and and Arizona Diamondbacks.

Sewald gave up a run against Seattle in one inning of work.

A BRIGHT SPOT

Luis Ortiz looked a lot better in his second start of the spring. He pitched the first three innings, giving up three hits and a run.

Cleveland is counting on Ortiz, Tanner Bibee, and Gavin Williams to hold down the first three spots in the pitching rotation.

AT THE PLATE

Cleveland scored both of its runs in the third inning to take a 2-1 lead.

Johnathan Rodriguez and Daniel Schneemann hit back-to-back home runs. They were playing left field and shortstop, respectively.

The Guardians will continue Cactus League play when they host the Los Angeles Angels in Goodyear, Ariz. Game time is 3:05 p.m. Eastern.