The Cleveland Guardians return to the postseason in 2025 has been fueled by a strong starting rotation, and at the center of it is Gavin Williams. Just two years into his big-league career, the right-hander has developed into a frontline starter, trusted enough to take the ball in Game 1 of the playoffs. His journey from a talented but inconsistent young arm to the ace of the Guardians’ staff has been one of the defining storylines of Cleveland’s season.
Early career: flashes of talent, lessons in consistency
Williams arrived in Cleveland’s system as a first-round pick in 2021, known for his electric fastball and big breaking curve. By the time he debuted in 2023, his raw ability was obvious; hitters struggled to catch up to his high-90s heater and chase his breaking pitches. But like many young pitchers, efficiency and command were often his biggest obstacles.
Through May of 2025, that inconsistency was still visible. He lasted five innings or fewer in eight of his first 11 starts, leaving the Guardians searching for more length from their rotation. The potential was undeniable, but Williams was still learning how to harness his stuff against big-league hitters.
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Turning the corner in 2025
The turning point came midseason. Since July 1, Williams has been one of the American League’s most reliable arms, posting a 2.44 ERA over 14 starts down the stretch. His season ERA finished at 3.06 across 30 outings, a number that reflects both the growing pains of the early months and the dominance he displayed in the second half.
Much of his success came from trusting his arsenal and leaning more heavily on his curveball, which has become a legitimate out pitch. By adjusting his pitch mix and working closely with catcher Bo Naylor, Williams began to attack hitters differently. He still touched triple digits with his fastball, but his willingness to pitch backwards and use his breaking ball in key spots helped him take the next step.
Earning the Ace Label
Manager Stephen Vogt has been clear about what Williams means to the staff: reliability, even when he isn’t at his sharpest. That’s been the biggest difference this season: his ability to compete and give Cleveland a chance every time he takes the mound.
At just 26 years old, Williams has shown the kind of growth teams dream of in a young starter. He no longer looks like a thrower learning the ropes, but a pitcher who understands how to work through lineups multiple times. His 180+ strikeouts and improved walk rate in 2025 point to a foundation for long-term success.
The Guardians’ trust in Williams
All of this led to one of the highest compliments a pitcher can receive: the Game 1 nod in October. Cleveland had options in its rotation, but Williams’ consistency and resilience made him the clear choice. It’s a responsibility that not only speaks to his talent but also to the confidence the Guardians have in his ability to set the tone.
Lights are bright
From a young arm searching for efficiency to the ace of a playoff rotation, Gavin Williams has taken remarkable strides in 2025. His growth has been as much about maturity and adjustments as it has been about pure stuff. Now, with Cleveland back in the postseason, he carries the label of frontline starter, a pitcher trusted to lead the Guardians when the lights are brightest.
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