Cleveland Guardians Lose Starting Pitcher Carlos Carrasco to Injury
A Significant Blow to the Guardians' Rotation
The Cleveland Guardians have been dealt a significant blow to their starting rotation with the news that Carlos Carrasco will miss the rest of the 2023 season due to a torn UCL.
Carrasco, who has been one of the Guardians' most consistent pitchers in recent years, was placed on the 15-day injured list on May 25th after experiencing discomfort in his elbow.
Further evaluation revealed the severity of the injury, and Carrasco underwent Tommy John surgery on June 2nd.
What does this mean for the Guardians?
Carrasco's absence is a major loss for the Guardians, who are currently in the thick of the AL Central race.
The 35-year-old right-hander was 4-4 with a 4.05 ERA in 11 starts this season.
He has been a key part of the Guardians' rotation since 2012, and his loss will be felt both on and off the field.
Who will replace Carrasco?
The Guardians will likely turn to one of their young pitchers to fill Carrasco's spot in the rotation.
Tanner Bibee, Sam Hentges, and Konnor Pilkington are all candidates to take over the role.
Bibee, a 24-year-old right-hander, has made two starts for the Guardians this season, going 0-1 with a 6.00 ERA.
Hentges, a 26-year-old left-hander, has made one start and four relief appearances for the Guardians this season, posting a 2.89 ERA.
Pilkington, a 24-year-old left-hander, has made seven starts for the Guardians this season, going 3-3 with a 4.29 ERA.
How will the Guardians cope without Carrasco?
The Guardians will need to rely on their other starters to step up in Carrasco's absence.
Shane Bieber, Triston McKenzie, and Aaron Civale are all capable of being frontline starters.
The Guardians will also need their bullpen to be strong, especially in the early going as the young pitchers who replace Carrasco get their feet wet.
What are the Guardians' chances of making the playoffs?
The Guardians' chances of making the playoffs will likely depend on how well they can replace Carrasco.
If they can find a suitable replacement, they should be in good shape to compete for a Wild Card spot.
However, if they are unable to find a reliable starter to fill Carrasco's void, their chances of making the playoffs will be significantly diminished.
