Manager A.J. Hinch’s decision to not use a traditional starter in Game 1 of the AL Division Series backfired as Tyler Holton failed to record an out and reliever Reese Olson gave up a three-run homer to Lane Thomas in the first inning a s the Cleveland Guardians rolled to a 7-0 win.

A vicious cut from Thomas on a first-pitch slider from Olson sent the ball soaring toward the left-field bleachers, eventually landing a projected 394 feet from home plate. Seemingly in a blink, it was 5-0 Guardians. Damage most certainly done.

The playoffs are here and the No. 2-seeded Guardians were ready for them Saturday. First-year manager Stephen Vogt and the Guardians opened up with a 7-0 win over the No. 6 Detroit Tigers in Game 1 of the American League Division Series Saturday afternoon at Progressive Field.