Guardians’ stellar season comes to conclusion with ALCS loss

In these moments, it’s hard to remember the expectations that were set back in February. This was a group that seemed destined to struggle with a first-time manager who wrapped up his playing career just two years ago. This was an offense that ranked last in homers and 29th in slugging percentage in 2023. This was a team that took a step back, ending last season with a sub-.500 record.