All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase, who had maintained a flawless save record since May, and the Cleveland Guardians secured their playoff berth in dramatic style with a 3-2 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday.
After Jose Ramirez started on second as the automatic runner, Minnesota reliever Caleb Thielbar (2-4) struck out Josh Naylor and issued an intentional walk to Lane Thomas, setting up Andres Gimenez, who already had three hits in the game. Gimenez then delivered on a 3-2 pitch, sending it into right field to score Ramirez comfortably in the 10th inning.
The Guardians returning to the post-season
As Ramirez rounded third, the Guardians’ dugout erupted, flooding the field in celebration. Cleveland secured its MLB-leading 42nd comeback victory and their second consecutive win in extra innings.
The Guardians became the second American League team to secure a postseason berth, following the New York Yankees, who clinched their spot on Wednesday night…