Players To Watch
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Guardians' Steven Kwan and Dodgers Clash: Key Players to Watch at Progressive Field

First Inning


As the Guardians prepare to host the Dodgers at Progressive Field, all eyes will be on Steven Kwan, the left fielder for the Tribe. Kwan has been a consistent performer over the past three games, showcasing his prowess with a batting average of .600 in one game against the Tigers. His ability to get on base with an impressive on-base percentage of .6 and slugging percentage of .8 makes him a crucial player for setting the tone early in the game. The Guardians will rely heavily on Kwan's offensive capabilities to challenge the Dodgers' pitching staff.


Sep 8, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA;  Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Jack Flaherty (0) pitches during the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

On the other side, Freddie Freeman stands out as a key player for the Blue. The first baseman has demonstrated remarkable consistency, boasting a batting average of .667 in one of his recent outings against the Mets. With an on-base percentage of .75 and slugging percentage of 1.0, Freeman is expected to be a formidable opponent for Guardians' pitchers. His performance in this inning could significantly influence how both teams approach their strategies moving forward.


Middle Innings


As we move into the middle innings, José Ramírez becomes an essential figure for Cleveland's lineup. The third baseman has maintained solid form with an average of .333 across multiple games and an OPS that peaked at 1.15 during one encounter with Detroit. Ramírez's ability to drive runs and maintain pressure on opposing pitchers will be vital as both teams settle into their rhythms.


Sep 8, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA;  Cleveland Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio (4) hits a single during the third inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

For Los Angeles, Mookie Betts is another player to watch closely. Despite some fielding errors, Betts has managed a steady batting average around .250 over recent games while contributing defensively from shortstop. His versatility and experience make him an asset during these crucial innings where maintaining momentum can often dictate outcomes.


Late Innings


In late-game scenarios, pitching becomes paramount, and here Nic Enright could play a pivotal role for Cleveland. As a relief pitcher with an ERA of 0 across recent appearances and striking out batters at a rate of 13 per nine innings in one game against Detroit, Enright's presence could be decisive in closing down any late surges from LA's hitters.


Sep 8, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA;  Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) hits a single during the third inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Meanwhile, Clayton Kershaw remains integral for LA's bullpen strategy towards game's end. Known for his precision and control under pressure situations—evidenced by his WHIP rating below 0.5—Kershaw provides stability that might thwart any comeback attempts by Cleveland’s batters during these tense moments.


Conclusion


With top performers like Steven Kwan leading offensively alongside reliable pitching options such as Nic Enright poised against formidable opponents like Freddie Freeman and Clayton Kershaw from LA’s roster—the upcoming clash promises excitement throughout each inning played out under lights at Progressive Field this May 27th evening (scheduled start time: 6:10 PM ET). Fans can catch all action live via SportsNet LA broadcast network—don’t miss what promises to be another thrilling chapter between two storied franchises!


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