The Cleveland Guardians host the New York Mets at Progressive Field on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, with first pitch scheduled for 6:40 PM ET. Tanner Bibee gets the ball for Cleveland against Mets right-hander Christian Scott in what shapes up as an intriguing pitching matchup between two young arms who have each shown the ability to put up quality starts. Catch the action on Guardians.TV Presented by Progressive or listen locally on WTAM 1100 and WMMS 100.7.
Probable Starters: Bibee vs. Scott
Tanner Bibee has been one of the cornerstones of Cleveland's rotation since breaking into the big leagues, and Wednesday night gives him another opportunity to put his stuff on display against a legitimate National League opponent. Bibee's combination of a sharp slider and ability to generate weak contact makes him a tough out for any lineup, and Progressive Field's faithful have seen him deliver when the moment demands it.
Christian Scott is the assignment Cleveland's hitters will need to solve. The Mets righty has shown the kind of arm that draws attention, and the Guardians' lineup will need to be disciplined and patient to get into his pitch count early. Scott has the ability to miss bats, so Cleveland will need to minimize strikeouts and put the ball in play to manufacture opportunities.
Keys to Watch for the Guardians
- Bibee's command early: How Bibee establishes his fastball in the first two innings will set the tone. If he's working ahead in the count, this could be a long night for the Mets' offense.
- Cleveland's approach against Scott: The Guardians are at their best when they grind at-bats and work counts. Against a pitcher with Scott's arsenal, patience at the plate isn't optional — it's mandatory.
- Bullpen availability: With a midweek game at home, the Guardians will want Bibee to go deep into the game to keep the relief arms fresh for the rest of the series.
- Progressive Field atmosphere: A summer Wednesday night at the corner of Carnegie and Ontario has its own energy. Cleveland's crowd can be a factor, especially if the Guardians jump on Scott early.
Prediction
This one comes down to pitching. Bibee at home, in August, with something to prove against a recognizable Mets lineup — that's a recipe for a strong outing. Look for the Guardians to get enough offense against Scott through disciplined at-bats and timely hitting to give Bibee a cushion he won't need to give back. Cleveland wins a tight one, 3-2.
