KANSAS CITY, Mo. (WKBN) – Zack Meisel of The Athletic is reporting that Cleveland Guardians ace starting pitcher Tanner Bibee will not pitch in Thursday’s season opener in Kansas City due to illness.

Instead, Ben Lively will make the start for Cleveland.

This spring, Lively posted a record of 2-1 with a 3.38 ERA in five appearances. He struck out 14 batters in 18.2 innings of work.

Bibee, who was originally slated to make his first career Opening Day start, signed a long-term contract extension with the Guardians last week.

Last season, Bibee started 31 games for Cleveland, posting a record of 12-8 with a 3.47 ERA. In 173 2/3 innings, he piled up 187 strikeouts.

In 2023, the right-hander finished second place in American League Rookie of the Year voting.

The Guardians will open the season at 4:10 p.m. on Thursday, March 27 on the road in Kansas City.

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