Guardians clinch AL playoff berth with 3-2 win over Rangers
September 27, 2025
C.J. Kayfus was hit by a pitch from Robert Garcia with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth inning, scoring Petey Halpin to clinch a playoff berth for the Cleveland Guardians with a 3-2 win over the Texas Rangers. Cleveland is guaranteed at least an American League wild card and remains tied with Detroit atop the AL Central. The Guardians own the head-to-head tiebreaker going into the final day of the regular season Sunday. Garcia intentionally walked Gabriel Arias to load the bases before hitting Kayfus on the right arm with his second pitch to the rookie. Cade Smith retired five batters for the win as three Guardians relievers combined for 3 1/3 scoreless innings.