Is it too early to dive into the AL Rookie of the Year conversation? Not if you're talking about Cleveland Guardians outfielder Chase DeLauter. This young talent has been buzzing with excitement for the 2026 season, and it's easy to see why.
Drafted 16th overall in 2022, DeLauter's journey to the majors has been anything but smooth. He's battled through injuries with a grit that shows just how much he loves the game.
"I'm more excited just to play the most meaningful winning baseball again," DeLauter shared with the media. His determination has been laser-focused on getting back on the field and contributing to his team's success.
DeLauter made his Guardians debut in the 2025 postseason against the Detroit Tigers in the ALDS. Though he snagged a hit in that series, it didn't count towards his regular season stats. But this season, he wasted no time making his mark.
In his first at-bat of the season against the Seattle Mariners, DeLauter faced a full count and launched a Logan Gilbert slider for a solo home run, putting the Guardians on the board right from the top of the first inning. That 358-foot shot, clocked at 102.2 MPH, wasn't just impressive-it was historic. DeLauter became the fifth player in Cleveland baseball history to homer in his first career regular season at-bat, joining the ranks of Earl Averill, Jay Bell, Kevin Kouzmanoff, and Jhonkensy Noel.
If this is just the beginning, the AL Rookie of the Year talks might not be too far off after all. DeLauter is certainly making his presence felt, and the Guardians-and their fans-have plenty to be excited about.