The Cleveland Guardians are clearly signaling a shift toward a new era - one built on youth, upside, and the kind of energy that can reshape a franchise. Veterans like José Ramírez and Steven Kwan are still very much the heartbeat of this team, but there’s a new wave coming fast, and three young names are right at the center of it: C.J. Kayfus, George Valera, and Chase DeLauter.
A recent detail that might seem minor on the surface - jersey number changes - actually speaks volumes about how the Guardians view these young players heading into 2026. According to fan intel, all three are getting new digits, a move that typically signals a player’s growing role and standing within the clubhouse.
Let’s start with Kayfus. The first baseman/outfielder is moving from No. 63 to No. 2 - a significant number that was last worn by Tyler Freeman.
It’s a small change, but it reflects a big leap in status. And it’s well-earned.
Kayfus didn’t arrive in the majors with the same hype as some of his fellow prospects, but once he got his shot, he delivered. He brought consistency to the lineup, showing a knack for timely hitting and a mature approach at the plate.
Sure, there’s still some work to be done with his plate discipline, but the raw tools are undeniable. He’s not just a future piece - he’s already making his presence felt.
Then there’s Chase DeLauter, switching from No. 34 to what’s possibly No. 24 (there’s some uncertainty here, as No. 14 is retired for the legendary Larry Doby). Regardless of the number, the message is clear: DeLauter is expected to be a foundational part of this team.
He’s got the kind of talent that makes scouts light up - a blend of power, speed, and baseball IQ that doesn’t come around often. Health has been the only thing holding him back.
But even with limited time in the big leagues, he made enough of an impression that manager Stephen Vogt trusted him to make his debut in the postseason. That says everything you need to know about how highly the organization thinks of him.
And finally, George Valera. He’s taking over No. 7, a number last worn by Will Wilson.
Valera’s journey hasn’t been easy - injuries stalled his progress and cast some doubt on whether he’d ever fully break through. But now, that breakthrough looks like it’s finally here.
The tools that made him a top prospect haven’t gone anywhere, and with a clean bill of health, he’s starting to show what he can really do. The Guardians have been patient, and it’s starting to pay off.
These three - Kayfus, DeLauter, and Valera - represent more than just promising young players. They’re the next wave of core contributors, the kind of talent that can help carry Cleveland back into serious postseason contention. And with Ramírez and Kwan still anchoring the lineup, the blend of veteran leadership and youthful upside is starting to take shape in a big way.
If 2025 was about glimpses, 2026 could be the year we see it all come together.