Guardians name Armstrong opener as Martinez awaits ALCS Game 4

Cleveland will open ALCS Game 4 with Shawn Armstrong and follow him with a bullpen game, while Tampa Bay plans to start Nick Martinez on Friday night. The Guardians announced Armstrong’s assignment Friday morning as both clubs waited on Cleveland’s weather.

The game is scheduled for 8 p.m. Eastern at Progressive Field, with Cleveland leading the best-of-seven series 2-1. MLB lists TBS, truTV, UniMás and HBO Max as the broadcast outlets. The pitching plans could change if rain forces a postponement.

Armstrong’s opening assignment puts him opposite a Rays lineup that has used right-handed hitters Yandy Díaz and Junior Caminero in the first and third spots. MLB’s Adam Berry and Tim Stebbins reported that Joey Cantillo, Tanner Bibee and Slade Cecconi are options to provide innings after him.

The Associated Press reported that Armstrong has allowed one hit across 5⅓ innings in four appearances this postseason, with five strikeouts.

Martinez made a career-high 31 starts during the regular season. He allowed two runs on five hits over 3⅔ innings in his ALDS start against the Yankees. In his Thursday media availability, he discussed staying ready for whatever role Tampa Bay needed.

If Game 4 moves to Saturday, MLB’s report notes that Drew Rasmussen would be available on normal rest for Tampa Bay and Foster Griffin would be in that position for Cleveland. Neither possibility amounts to an announced change in starters.

Sources

MLB: Friday pitching plans for Game 4 · Associated Press: Armstrong to open against Martinez