Watching from afar as the Cleveland Guardians celebrate a playoff spot at Fenway Park, I’m thinking back to 10 years ago, when the franchise did the same thing.
The Indians, as they were then known, swept the Red Sox in a division series, ending David Ortiz’s career and moving on to the ALCS. They won that series, too, setting up an epic World Series with the Chicago Cubs. And while the Tribe lost that one, it’s no surprise that they keep earning a chance to return.
A decade ago, José Ramirez was celebrating in that Fenway clubhouse, along with top executives Chris Antonetti and Mike Chernoff. All three are still with Cleveland, and while pitching coach Carl Willis wasn’t there in 2016, he’s logged 11 seasons with the club since 2003.
Continuity among leadership, on the field and especially in the front office and coaching ranks, is a common thread for low-payroll darlings like Cleveland, Tampa Bay and Milwaukee. Their steadfast commitment to a process that works is something to celebrate.