Bibee Scratched; Lively to Start Opener

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Tanner Bibee was scratched from his first career Opening Day start against the Kansas City Royals due to acute gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu. Bibee, who recently signed a five-year, $48 million contract extension, was replaced by Ben Lively, who was initially scheduled to pitch later in the week. Bibee, who had a strong previous season with a 3.47 ERA and 187 strikeouts, felt better on Thursday but was still unable to play. Lively, who had a 3.81 ERA last season, is now starting against the Royals as the Guardians adjust their rotation, potentially allowing Bibee to pitch during the weekend. Manager Stephen Vogt informed Royals' manager Matt Quatraro in advance about the potential change due to Bibee's illness to ensure transparency. Despite Bibee's absence, the Guardians' Opening Day series against the Royals remains a competitive start to the season for both teams.