Guardians vs. Mets: Can Cleveland Conquer Queens? Series Preview!
The Cleveland Guardians are in Queens to face the New York Mets in a crucial three-game series at Citi Field, starting Monday, August 4, 2025. Both teams are looking to gain momentum after a volatile few weeks leading up to this matchup.
Guardians Aim to Overcome Challenges
For the Guardians (56-55), the period leading up to the MLB Trade Deadline was filled with unexpected challenges. Despite winning four of five series, the team faced significant distractions. Starting pitcher Luis Ortiz was placed on non-disciplinary paid leave due to allegations of gambling on baseball. Shortly after, closer Emmanuel Clase faced a similar situation, also being placed on non-disciplinary leave for the same reason.
These absences significantly impact the team's performance. Ortiz was a reliable starter, and Clase is a dominant reliever. The Guardians moved veteran players Shane Bieber and Paul Sewald at the deadline but held onto Steven Kwan, their most valuable player. The Guardians are currently three games out of a Wild Card spot and eight games behind the Tigers in the AL Central. They're aiming to win without key players and without the usual reinforcements from the trade deadline.
Mets Seek a Turnaround
The New York Mets (63-49) are also looking for a strong series to turn their season around. They've added key players at the deadline, hoping to bolster their roster and make a push for the playoffs.
Starting Lineups and How to Watch
Guardians Starting Lineup:
- CF Angel Martinez
- 3B Jose Ramirez
- 1B Carlos Santana
- SS Gabriel Arias
- 2B Brayan Rocchio
- C Austin Hedges
Mets Starting Lineup:
- LF Brandon Nimmo
- SS Francisco Lindor
- 1B Mark Vientos
- CF Cedric Mullins
- 3B Ronny Mauricio
- C Francisco Alvarez
The game will be broadcast on SNY and Guardians TV, with out-of-market coverage on MLB.TV. Streaming options include DirecTV (free trial), and MLB.TV via fuboTV and Sling.
Starting pitchers for Monday's game are RHP Slade Cecconi (5-4, 3.77 ERA) for the Guardians and LHP Sean Manaea (1-1, 2.08 ERA) for the Mets.
Game time is 7:10 p.m. ET at Citi Field in Queens, New York.