Slade Cecconi to debut for Guardians after injury recovery

In Cincinnati, on Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Cleveland Guardians will see the debut of right-hander Slade Cecconi as he is reinstated from the 15-day injured list. Manager Stephen Vogt announced Cecconi's start following the team's loss to the Cincinnati Reds. The Guardians are making this change due to Ben Lively being placed on the injured list with a right forearm strain. Cecconi, previously acquired from Arizona, has had a challenging recovery, suffering a left oblique strain during spring training and making three minor league rehab starts in which he posted an 0-2 record and a 4.85 ERA. For today's game, the Cincinnati Reds have opted for an opener strategy with left-hander Brent Suter taking the mound first, followed by Chase Petty, who was originally scheduled to start. This decision aims to balance winning while helping Petty, who has struggled early in the season. Terry Francona, the Reds’ manager, expressed confidence in Suter's ability to pitch effectively after some rest and sees this as an opportunity for Petty to receive necessary guidance and develop under the watchful eye of pitching coach Derek Johnson. Cecconi's return is especially important because he fills the gap left by Lively’s injury, marking the first significant injury to a Guardians starter this season. With the Guardians looking to improve their overall standing, the debut of Cecconi could potentially energize the pitching rotation and contribute positively to the team efforts against the Reds. As Francona prepares his team with Suter as the opener, there are hopes that both teams can put on a competitive display on this Saturday. Slade Cecconi's debut comes after a considerable wait, having sustained his oblique strain in spring training, which delayed his opportunity to contribute at the major league level. The Guardians organization is optimistic that his addition to the rotation will enhance their prospects as they navigate through a challenging season. Meanwhile, Cincinnati's strategy to start Suter aligns with their attempts to manage their young pitcher effectively while still pursuing victories. The game today not only marks significant moments for both teams but highlights an evolving narrative around player management and recovery in Major League Baseball.