Guardians Drop Opener to Astros, Cecconi Struggles

0:00It's April 21st. This is MLB News Today, AI-powered stories from around the league. I'm Cory with the story. The Cleveland Guardians dropped a tough 9-2 decision to the Houston Astros on Monday, April 20th, kicking off their 3-game home. Series. Starter Slade Sikoni took the brunt of it, going 5 innings while surrendering 10 hits and 7 runs. Most of them earned, with just 2. Strikeouts and a couple walks. Coming off a solid 3-1 series win against Baltimore, this one stung extra hard for the squad. Sikoni's velocity looked sharp at times, hitting 95 mph early, but his command faltered, especially in the 4th. His seasons off to a rough start through 5 outings, with a 6.20 ERA, opponents hitting 273 against him, and 27 hits allowed, including 5 homers. The bullpen couldn't stem the tide much either, as relievers gave up 2 more runs across 4 innings. Manager Stephen Vogue stayed upbeat, noting positives in Sikoni's battle and improvements from his last start, while praising young hitters like Kyle.

1:04Manzardo for handling curves better, and Bran Roqueo for consistent at-bats and a hot start. The lineup managed 8 hits total, highlighted by Knox from Jose Ramirez, Manzardo, Reese Hoskins, and 3 from Roqueo. But they stranded 2. Many runners to mount a real comeback. They tied it briefly in the 3rd, on a George Valera blast, but couldn't push ahead after scratching 1 across in the first. Relieber Tim Haring kept his scoreless streak alive despite a hit and walk, while Connor bragged and closed it out after a solo shot. Game 2 goes Tuesday, April 21st, with Cleveland aiming to split the set and avoid dropping 3 of their last 4 series. They'll need sharper pitching to turn this around quick.