Shane Bieber is no stranger to opening day. The 26 year old right-handed pitcher has been a cornerstone for the Guardians franchise, and is slated to start his third straight opening day game. "I'm feeling excited for the 2022 season," Bieber said. "I'm welcoming it with open arms, I think we all are. There's an excitement, a buzz, a natural type of energy around the clubhouse prior to opening day".
Before his season was cut short by a shoulder injury, Bieber was off to a hot start in 2021. He went 7-4 over sixteen games, racking up 134 strikeouts with a 3.17 ERA. He'll face off against Royals' ace Zach Grienke, who's making his return to Kansas City after twelve years away from the team. The Guardians will be playing the Royals in Kansas City Thursday afternoon, with first pitch set for 4:10.