Cleveland Guardians Spring Training Preview: Youth Movement, WBC Impact, and Key Storylines to Watch
It might not feel like baseball season in Northeast Ohio right now-especially with the snow on the ground-but don’t let the winter weather fool you. Spring training is right around the corner, and for the Cleveland Guardians, it’s shaping up to be a pivotal few weeks in Goodyear, Arizona.
Pitchers and catchers are set to report on February 12, with the first full-squad workout following on February 17. That means we’re less than a month away from the unofficial start of the 2026 season. And while spring training always brings hope, this year’s camp carries a little extra intrigue for Cleveland, thanks to a talented wave of young players and a few key absences due to the World Baseball Classic.
Youth Movement in Full Swing
This spring offers a golden opportunity for some of the Guardians’ top young talent to make a strong impression-and potentially earn a spot on the Opening Day roster. Two names to circle early: Chase DeLauter and George Valera.
Both outfielders made their big league debuts late last season and showed flashes of the tools that made them highly regarded prospects. With the outfield picture still fluid heading into 2026, this spring could be their chance to stake a claim.
But the youth movement doesn’t stop there. Khalil Watson and Angel Genao-both added to the 40-man roster during the offseason-are also in the mix.
Watson brings athleticism and upside, while Genao, a switch-hitting infielder, has been quietly rising through the system. He may not be penciled into the Opening Day lineup just yet, but don’t be surprised if he forces his way into the conversation with a strong camp.
Manager Stephen Vogt has already indicated that Gabriel Arias and Brayan Rocchio will see significant time in the infield during spring training, but Genao’s versatility and bat could earn him a longer look. The competition for infield reps is going to be fierce-and that’s exactly what you want in February.
Watch the Mound: Who’s This Year’s Breakout Arm?
If there’s one thing the Guardians have done consistently well over the years, it’s developing pitching. And spring training has become something of a launching pad for surprise contributors on the mound. Think Ben Lively in 2024 or Joey Cantillo in 2025-both pitchers who weren’t necessarily on the radar heading into camp but ended up playing key roles during the season.
So who’s next? That’s the fun part.
Cleveland’s pitching depth is always worth watching, and you can bet someone from the current crop of arms will turn heads in Goodyear. Whether it’s a non-roster invitee or a prospect looking to break through, the Guardians’ track record suggests we’re likely to see another name emerge.
WBC Absences Open Doors for Others
While the Guardians won’t be scrimmaging any World Baseball Classic teams this spring, the tournament will still have a noticeable impact on their camp. That’s because several key players will be suiting up for their home countries, temporarily vacating their spots in Goodyear.
José Ramírez will represent the Dominican Republic, while closer Cade Smith and catcher Bo Naylor are heading to Team Canada. Top prospect Travis Bazzana will be playing for Australia. These aren’t fringe players-Ramírez is the heart of the lineup, Smith is a key bullpen piece, and Naylor is the club’s starting catcher.
Their absences won’t affect their roster security, but they will open the door for younger players to get more reps in big league camp. That’s a huge opportunity, especially for guys on the bubble or looking to make a strong early impression. It’s one thing to get a few innings late in a spring game-it’s another to be in the starting lineup and catching a full staff.
Mark Your Calendar: Feb. 21
The Guardians will kick off their Cactus League schedule on February 21 with split-squad games against the Reds and Brewers. It’s the first real look at how this group is shaping up, and while the results won’t count in the standings, the performances will absolutely matter-especially for those fighting for a roster spot.
Between the young talent, the open competition, and the WBC-related lineup shuffling, this spring is shaping up to be one of the more compelling camps Cleveland has had in recent years. And with Opening Day getting closer by the day, it’s almost time to see how it all shakes out.