The Cleveland Guardians are gearing up for the 2026 season with a mix of promise and uncertainty. With a lineup poised to benefit from emerging young talent, the big question is which prospects will rise to the occasion.
Their starting rotation brims with potential, though it's largely untested. Meanwhile, the bullpen is adapting to new dynamics, especially with Cade Smith stepping into his first full season as closer.
Amidst these variables, the Guardians have a rock-solid constant: Jose Ramirez. The star third baseman remains a linchpin, consistently delivering elite performances year after year.
Analysts Theo DeRosa, Brent Maguire, and Shanthi Sepe-Chepuru have pegged Ramirez as the Guardians' standout player for 2026, projecting a 4.8 WAR. Ramirez's recent seven-year, $175 million extension underscores his value.
Coming off a stellar season with 30 homers, a career-high 44 steals, and a .282/.360/.503 slash line, he racked up an impressive 6.3 WAR. His defensive prowess at third base was evident with +7 Outs Above Average in 2025.
At 33, Ramirez seems to be defying age, posting consecutive 30-30 seasons. Achieving another would place him alongside Barry Bonds as the only players to accomplish three in a row.
His consistency is further highlighted by his third-place finish in AL MVP voting in 2025, following a fifth-place in 2024, and a top-10 presence over the last six seasons. Durability is his hallmark, with at least 156 appearances in each of the past four years.
Despite a preseason projection hinting at a dip in power, Guardians fans have every reason to be optimistic. Ramirez's track record suggests he's far from slowing down. As the team integrates prospects like Chase DeLauter and Travis Bazzana, Ramirez's leadership will be crucial.
All signs point to another standout season for Ramirez, as he continues his journey toward potential Hall of Fame status.