‘Still believe we can be better’: Vogt reflects on Guardians season after ALCS loss

CLEVELAND (WJW) – The Cleveland Guardians’ season has officially come to an close after falling to the New York Yankees in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series.

“Obviously we’re hurting. What a game to finish it on,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said in a post-game media conference. “This group of guys worked extremely hard from day one. We still believe we can be better, we can be more, but I couldn’t be more proud of what this group accomplished.”

Game 5 was tied at 2-2 until Juan Soto hit a three-run homer with two outs in the 10th inning, leading the Yankees to win the ALCS. The Yankees and now heading to their 41st World Series.

“It was an exciting series throughout, great games to watch,” Vogt said. “Credit to (the Yankees). They’re a phenomenal team. They’ve earned their way there.”

Vogt was asked what he learned from his first year as manager.

“It’s a long season and every decision you make, you learn from it. Good or bad, indifferent,” he said.

The Guardians were hoping to claim the franchise’s first World Series title since 1948 — a goal that will have to wait until at least next season.

“You can beat yourself up, second guess, but what’s true is you made the best decision you thought was in the moment and then you leave it behind,” Vogt said. “I have a mentor who says, ‘learn the lesson, leave the event.’ You leave the event behind and learn everything you can from it.”

He went on to thank the Guardians fans who showed up in waves throughout the season.

“Our fans were outstanding this year. We packed this place all year. They showed up, they supported us. Everywhere you go around town there’s Guardians hats, shirts, sweatshirts, flags on houses,” Vogt said. “That was really cool for me to learn this first year, how dedicated, loyal and I’m thankful they embraced a first-time manager taking over for a legend.”

Find more Game 5 coverage right here.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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