With spring training only a few days from starting, the Cleveland Guardians have a number of issues that will determine their fate in the 2026 season. The Guardians, two time defending AL Central Division Champions, are looking to add some much needed offense to a lineup that was near the bottom of MLB in runs scored and batting average. The early indication is that several players will figure in what should be a different looking lineup......Chase DeLauter, George Valera, and CJ Kayfus are all possibilities for the CF and RF positions. Kayfus can also play 1st base in the field. There is talk that at some point of the season that highly touted prospect Travis Bazzana could be called up after being promoted to AAA late last season. Steven Kwan, Jose Ramirez, and Kyle Manzardo should continue to be the most productive bats in the lineup. Perhaps C Bo Naylor can continue to improve his offensive numbers as he had some big hits during the remarkable run to the Central title last September.

The pitching staff, especially the starting rotation, looks formidable after their amazing performance last September, when they went almost 15 consecutive games allowing no more than 2 runs per game. Gavin Williams could be a darkhorse for the Cy Young award, while Tanner Bibee, Slade Cecconi, Logan Allen, Joey Cantillo and Parker Messick round out a solid rotation. The bullpen will have Cade Smith as the closer once again, and he should be better with valuable experience gained last season. Hunter Gaddis, Eric Sabrowski, and Matt Festa are among those who 2 time Manager of the Year Stephen Vogt will look to shut down any late inning rallies.

The Guardians set an MLB record by coming from 15.5 games back to topple Detroit the last weekend of the season to capture the Central crown. With some more offense and what looks to be a dependable set of starters and bullpen arms, Cleveland should find itself in the running for a 3rd straight division title.