The Cleveland Guardians are brimming with young talent in their outfield, and this season could be a pivotal one for several promising players. Chase DeLauter is on the brink of his regular-season debut, joining the ranks of George Valera and CJ Kayfus, who made their mark late last year.
Nolan Jones is eyeing a starting spot, while Steven Kwan, now in his fifth MLB season, continues to be a staple in the lineup. With Angel Martinez also back in action, it seems the roster is packed to the brim, leaving little room for additional prospects.
Enter Kahlil Watson, a young outfielder whose performance at Triple-A last season suggests he's ready for the majors. Watson was added to the Guardians’ 40-man roster after an impressive finish to the 2025 season, where he posted a .292 average, .401 OBP, and .558 SLG over his final 33 games. His stats include 33 hits, 21 runs, and 7 home runs, showcasing his potential to impact the big league club.
Originally a highly-touted shortstop, Watson was projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft but slipped to the Miami Marlins at No. 16 due to signability concerns. His journey took a turn when he was traded to Cleveland in 2023 as part of the Josh Bell deal. Since then, Watson has transitioned to the outfield and ended 2025 as the Guardians’ No. 18 prospect, according to MLB.com.
With the Guardians' outfield in a state of flux, manager Stephen Vogt is exploring various combinations. A potential move of Gold Glove winner Steven Kwan to center field could open up a corner spot for players like DeLauter, Valera, or Nolan Jones.
Watson, with his well-rounded game, might just offer the versatility they need. His minor league stats boast 77 stolen bases and 56 home runs, though his near 30 percent strikeout rate might need refinement before he steps onto the MLB stage.
As Watson approaches his 23rd birthday in April, the stage is set for him to carve out a bright future with the Guardians. His development will be crucial as Cleveland looks to harness its young talent and make a strong push in the upcoming season.