Misplayed Fly Ball Leads to Guardians' Walk-Off Win, Tightening AL Central Race

A misplayed fly ball by Chicago White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci in the ninth inning Tuesday night proved decisive, as the Cleveland Guardians secured a 7-6 victory, narrowing the AL Central lead to a mere half-game.

With two outs and runners on second and third, and the Guardians trailing 6-5, Antonacci failed to make a diving catch on a fly ball hit by Brayan Rocchio toward the left-field corner. The ball eluded Antonacci, allowing both runners to score and Rocchio to double, completing the comeback for Cleveland.

"Pretty dogs—t, to be honest," Antonacci said of his play. "Just have to clean it up. It’s the big leagues. You can’t make those types of routes in that position."

The win came in the second game of a crucial series between the two rivals, with the rubber match scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. The White Sox, who have led the AL Central since July 4, are seeking to avoid a third consecutive season of 100 or more losses.

Rocchio, known for his late-season heroics, celebrated the walk-off with his teammates after a play that kept the Guardians' division title hopes alive. This marked his fourth walk-off hit in September.

"I didn’t try to do something special in that moment," Rocchio said. "I just tried to put the bat to the ball and see what happens."

Earlier in the game, rookie Travis Bazzana hit two home runs for Cleveland. The Guardians took an early 3-0 lead, but the White Sox rallied in the sixth inning. Miguel Vargas delivered a two-out single to break a tie, and Chicago added to their lead before Cleveland's late-game surge.

Jo Adell, acquired at the trade deadline, contributed a 442-foot home run in the first inning for Cleveland. Closer Cade Smith pitched effectively in relief, securing five outs on 16 pitches and is expected to be available for Wednesday's game.