The Cleveland Guardians aren’t expected to make much noise this offseason. Don’t expect a splashy free agent signing or a blockbuster trade.
Instead, the front office seems focused on internal growth-tweaking the roster from within rather than overhauling it from the outside. And that strategy puts a spotlight squarely on one name heading into 2026: Kyle Manzardo.
According to team insider Paul Hoynes, Manzardo is poised to take on a much bigger role next season. And not just as a bench bat or platoon option-he’s being looked at as a key piece of the lineup puzzle, someone who could help stabilize the heart of the order.
“This is a key guy,” Hoynes said. “If they don’t make a move, [Manzardo’s] going to protect Ramírez and he’s got to stay in the lineup against lefties and righties.”
That’s a big ask, but it’s also a big opportunity.
Manzardo’s 2025 campaign was a slow burn. It took time for manager Stephen Vogt to fully buy in, and early on, Manzardo was more of a situational bat-plugged in based on matchups rather than penciled in every day.
But when he got his shot, he delivered. His bat proved too productive to keep on the bench, and with Carlos Santana no longer the hitter he once was, the Guardians had little choice but to lean into the youth movement.
What stood out about Manzardo’s performance was the balance. He brought legitimate power to the plate, but didn’t sacrifice contact to do it.
That’s a rare combo, especially for a young hitter still adjusting to big-league pitching. The front office took notice, reportedly encouraging him to add muscle this offseason to help him handle the grind of everyday duties in 2026.
If he follows through, and if that added strength translates without costing him his approach, the Guardians might just have something special on their hands. This isn’t just about filling a lineup spot-it’s about developing a potential All-Star who could protect José Ramírez in the order and give Cleveland the kind of left-handed power presence they’ve been missing.
The Guardians’ plan for 2026 isn’t flashy, but it could be effective. And it hinges on players like Manzardo taking the next step. If he does, Cleveland’s quiet offseason could turn into a loud statement come summer.