The New York Yankees and Cleveland Guardians are set to continue their three-game series on April 22, 2025, at Progressive Field, with the Yankees riding a strong wave of early-season form and the Guardians hoping to bounce back and reclaim some consistency at home. The Yankees entered the series opener with momentum, having won six of their last seven games thanks to a potent blend of elite offensive firepower and steady pitching. New York’s lineup, led by Aaron Judge and Paul Goldschmidt, has been among the most dangerous in baseball, with both stars posting batting averages above .360 and combining for double-digit home runs already this season. Judge’s resurgence at the plate has been especially encouraging for Yankees fans, with his .707 slugging percentage ranking among the league’s best and his ability to change a game with one swing reaffirming his status as one of the premier power hitters in the game. Their supporting cast has also stepped up, including surprise performances from players like Trent Grisham—who, despite currently being on paternity leave, has made a significant impact early. The Yankees’ offense is averaging nearly six runs per game during this recent hot stretch, and their patience at the plate has led to increased pressure on opposing pitchers. Cleveland, on the other hand, has been up and down to start the season. Though they swept the Pirates in a recent series, they’ve struggled against more potent lineups like the Yankees. The Guardians’ offense has relied heavily on Steven Kwan, who’s batting .325 with a 158 wRC+, and veteran José Ramírez, who remains a steady force in the middle of the order. While Kwan provides a consistent on-base presence and Ramírez offers power from both sides of the plate, Cleveland has lacked the depth to consistently support their stars, and that has shown in games where early runs are hard to come by.

Their starting pitching has been underwhelming so far, with Gavin Williams and Tanner Bibee each carrying ERAs north of 4.50, and Game 2 starter Bibee looking to bounce back from two difficult outings. The Guardians’ bullpen, however, remains a strength, anchored by reliable arms like Hunter Gaddis and Cade Smith, although closer Emmanuel Clase has not been his usual dominant self, struggling with command and allowing a high batting average against his cutter. To contend in this matchup, Cleveland must receive a quality start from Bibee and rely on its bullpen to keep the Yankees’ bats in check once the game hits the middle innings. Given recent form and offensive production, the Yankees appear poised to continue their run of dominance, particularly with their strong track record against the Guardians in recent matchups. They’ve covered the run line in seven of their last ten meetings with Cleveland, and the betting trends reflect their edge in both power and pitching. However, Progressive Field has always presented a challenge for visiting teams, and if the Guardians can jump ahead early and lean on their bullpen, they can even the series and prevent the Yankees from extending their lead atop the American League standings. As always in baseball, the outcome will hinge on execution—especially from the starting pitchers, who will either dictate tempo or put pressure on their respective bullpens. Expect a competitive atmosphere in Cleveland as both clubs look to set the tone early, with the Yankees aiming to ride their momentum and the Guardians seeking a stabilizing win at home.