Adversity struck the defending AL Central Division champion Cleveland Guardians before the first pitch of the 2025 season.

Despite losing starting pitcher Tanner Bibee to food poisoning, the Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 7-4 in 10 innings.

LIVELY TO THE RESCUE

Ben Lively took over as the Guardians’ starter. Everything was fine until Vinnie Pasquantino hit a three-run bomb in the third inning.

Cleveland clawed back into the game on sacrifice flies from Jhonkensy Noel in the fourth and Jose Ramirez in the fifth.

Kyle Manzardo gave Cleveland a 4-3 lead with a two-run homer to right in the sixth inning.

HOW ABOUT THAT BULLPEN?

Cade Smith, Tim Herrin, and Hunter Gaddis each pitched a scoreless inning, just like last year. Then it was Emmanuel Clase’s turn.

Clase regressed to his playoff form by giving up three hits in the ninth. Michael Massey’s sacrifice fly tied the game.

Ironically, Clase picked up the win after the Guardians scored three in the top of the 10th.

Steven Kwan doubled to score “ghost runner” Brayan Rocchhio. After an intentional walk to Carlos Santana, Manzardo came through again with a two-run double.

Paul Sewald pitched a scoreless 10th inning for his 85th career save.

Gavin Williams will start Saturday’s game for Cleveland, while the Royals will go with All-Star Seth Lugo.