Gorman, Scott Power Cardinals to Sweep in Cleveland
CLEVELAND — The St. Louis Cardinals capped off a dominant weekend with a 7–0 shutout victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday, completing a three-game sweep in commanding fashion.
Nolan Gorman got things going early, launching a three-run homer in the first inning off Guardians starter Logan Allen (5–6). Victor Scott II added to the offensive fireworks with a two-run blast in the seventh, and the Cardinals tacked on two more in the eighth thanks to RBI hits from Pedro Pagés and Garrett Hampson.
On the mound, left-hander Matthew Liberatore (6–6) delivered six strong innings, allowing just three hits while striking out five. The win marked his career-best third consecutive victory. The Cardinals' bullpen — JoJo Romero, Riley O'Brien, and John King — closed out the game to complete a combined three-hitter despite issuing eight walks.
The win extended St. Louis’ road winning streak to six games, their longest under manager Oliver Marmol. Over the course of the series, the Cardinals outscored the Guardians 21–6.
Cleveland’s lone bright spot came from Allen, who kept the game within reach through six innings before the bullpen faltered. The Guardians wrapped up their homestand with a 1–5 record and slipped two games below .500 for the first time since early April.
In a concerning moment for Cleveland, shortstop Gabriel Arias left the game in the third inning with a left ankle sprain after his spikes caught in the grass during a defensive play. He was carted off the field. X-rays came back negative, and he’s scheduled for an MRI on Monday.
Notable Moments:
- Gorman’s 428-foot home run in the first inning set the tone early.
- Nolan Arenado recorded his 1,900th career hit and his 400th double during the game, though he briefly appeared shaken after jamming his finger on the base.
Looking Ahead:
- Cardinals: RHP Erick Fedde (3–7, 4.11 ERA) takes the mound Monday to open a three-game set in Pittsburgh.
- Guardians: RHP Gavin Williams (5–3, 3.68 ERA) is set to start Tuesday against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.