The Cleveland Guardians have been busy this offseason-but not in the way fans were hoping. Yes, they’ve added to the bullpen, a unit that’s already been a strength in recent years.
But the glaring need remains the same: offense. And so far, the front office has been reluctant to pull the trigger on any meaningful upgrades at the plate.
That’s the backdrop behind ESPN’s Jesse Rogers’ recent assessment of the AL Central, where he ranked each team on an “urgency index.” The Guardians landed near the bottom with a score of four-just one step above the lowest possible rating.
His reasoning? While Cleveland may still be shopping for another bullpen arm before spring training, it’s the offense that needs the real attention.
Rogers pointed out that the Guardians are banking on internal options to step up, especially from the farm system. Travis Bazzana, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft, is one name to watch.
He’s still developing in the minors, but there’s real hope he could be a difference-maker down the line. Chase DeLauter, who got a taste of the majors late last season, could also play a role in 2026.
Still, relying on unproven prospects to carry the offensive load is a gamble-especially for a team that’s not far removed from playoff contention. The Guardians have a clear path to improving their lineup, particularly by adding a right-handed depth bat. That’s not just speculation; it’s a need that’s been echoed by analysts and fans alike.
There are options out there. Harrison Bader fits the mold perfectly-right-handed, experienced, and capable of playing all three outfield spots-but he’s reportedly looking for a multi-year deal, which might not align with Cleveland’s budget or timeline.
Still, the market isn’t barren. Austin Hays and Miguel Andujar are among the names that could offer value without a massive financial commitment.
Andujar, for example, showed flashes of his power potential with a multi-homer game last summer-his first career two-homer performance.
The Guardians aren’t the only team in the AL Central operating with caution this winter. The division as a whole has been quiet.
The biggest splash so far? The White Sox landing Japanese infielder Munetaka Murakami on a surprisingly team-friendly deal.
The Royals and Tigers have made a few moves around the edges, but nothing seismic. The Twins?
Their lone addition has been veteran slugger Josh Bell.
That relative inactivity across the division could work in Cleveland’s favor-especially if the Tigers’ arbitration battle with ace Tarik Skubal turns sour. The lefty is one of the most valuable arms in the division, and if the relationship with Detroit's front office frays, it could open the door for a shakeup in the standings.
But the Guardians can’t bank on other teams stumbling. They’ve built a reputation on pitching and player development, but at some point, they need to give their arms some run support.
There’s still time to make a move. Spring training hasn’t started yet, and there are still free agents available who could help balance the lineup and provide much-needed depth.
Cleveland’s front office has a decision to make. Do they ride into 2026 hoping the kids are ready to carry the load?
Or do they take a swing at a cost-effective veteran who can help right now? The clock’s ticking-and the division, while quiet, won’t stay asleep forever.