The Cleveland Guardians didn’t make much noise this offseason - and that’s by design. Instead of chasing splashy free agents or headline-grabbing trades, they’re betting on the strength of their farm system and the internal growth of a young, evolving roster. And in a division that’s still very much up for grabs, Cleveland’s approach could quietly pay off once again.
The Guardians head into 2026 with a clear focus: improve an offense that struggled to keep pace last year. It’s no secret that the lineup was one of the weakest in baseball, and the front office knows it. Rather than overhaul the roster, they’re leaning into their player development pipeline - and that means giving real opportunities to some exciting young names.
Rookie outfielder Chase DeLauter looks like a near-lock to break camp with the big-league club. He’s been on the radar for a while, and now he gets his shot to prove he belongs.
Then there’s infielder Travis Bazzana, the top overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, who’s expected to make his debut this season. His bat, instincts, and advanced approach at the plate make him one of the most anticipated prospects in the organization.
But it’s not just about the kids. The Guardians also brought in a pair of veterans on non-roster invites who could quietly become key pieces if things break right: Stuart Fairchild and Carter Kieboom.
Fairchild, a right-handed hitting outfielder, brings five years of big-league experience to the table. Since debuting with the Diamondbacks in 2021, he’s bounced around - including stints with the Mariners, Giants, and most recently, a three-year stretch with the Reds.
In 2025, he spent time with the Braves before signing with Cleveland this past December. At 29, Fairchild isn’t being asked to carry the offense, but his experience and versatility could be valuable, especially in a clubhouse filled with young, left-handed bats.
Then there’s Kieboom, a former first-round pick by the Nationals who’s had a winding road through the majors. The 28-year-old third baseman has five seasons under his belt, though they’ve been spread out over seven years - a reminder of just how unpredictable development can be.
After missing the 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery and not seeing major league action in 2024, he spent last year with the Angels before signing with Cleveland in January. Like Fairchild, Kieboom isn’t expected to be a regular starter, but his presence gives the Guardians a safety net at third base and a veteran who’s been through the ups and downs of a big-league career.
Both Fairchild and Kieboom are long shots to become everyday contributors, but their value lies in stability. If the Guardians are going to succeed with so many young players stepping into bigger roles, having experienced pros around to guide them - and step in when needed - can make a real difference over the grind of a 162-game season.
Despite the quiet winter, this is still a team coming off back-to-back AL Central titles. And while some may be lowering expectations based on the lack of offseason moves, it’s worth remembering how they clawed their way to the division crown last year - a rally that felt more like a statement than a fluke.
The Guardians aren’t trying to win the offseason. They’re trying to build something sustainable - and if their young core takes the next step, with a little help from veterans like Fairchild and Kieboom, they might just surprise people again.