As spring training draws near, the Cleveland Guardians are keeping quiet-but confident. While their offseason hasn’t featured splashy free-agent signings or blockbuster trades, the reigning back-to-back AL Central champs are leaning into a different kind of strategy: internal growth and trust in their young core.
And make no mistake, there’s a plan here.
Manager Stephen Vogt, entering his second season at the helm, isn’t shying away from the high expectations. Speaking recently about the club’s preparation, Vogt struck a tone of measured optimism.
“We feel really good [coming into spring training],” Vogt said. “Obviously, there are some things that we need to address, and we’ve been addressing them this winter.
Our guys are getting in some really good, focused work. The weight room has been a big priority for us, and we’re really excited about the young group of hitters that we have and the ones coming.”
It’s that group of young hitters that could very well define the Guardians’ 2026 campaign.
The offense was a sore spot last season-Cleveland ranked 28th in MLB in runs scored-and that’s where the biggest questions still loom. But the Guardians are banking on a youth movement to help turn things around.
Outfielders George Valera and Chase DeLauter, both of whom got a taste of the big leagues late last season, are expected to take on larger roles. And perhaps the most anticipated debut of all: second baseman Travis Bazzana, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, who’s poised to make his first appearance this season.
That trio will be joining a lineup that already features cornerstone players like Steven Kwan and Jose Ramirez. Kwan continues to be one of the most consistent contact hitters in the game, while Ramirez remains the heart and soul of the offense-an elite bat with a knack for delivering in big spots.
But for Cleveland to climb out of the offensive basement, they’ll need more than just the kids to step up. First baseman Kyle Manzardo, a power bat with plenty of potential, will be counted on to deliver more pop. And behind the plate, Bo Naylor will need to take a step forward offensively to complement his defensive skills.
On the pitching side, the Guardians are on much firmer ground. Gavin Williams headlines a rotation that quietly became one of the more reliable units in the American League last season.
And in the bullpen, Cade Smith emerged as a legitimate late-inning weapon, stepping in seamlessly after Emmanuel Clase was sidelined due to a gambling-related suspension. Smith’s rise helped stabilize the back end of games, and with some added depth this winter, Vogt has reason to feel good about the bullpen’s outlook.
Yes, there’s risk in leaning so heavily on youth. Not every top prospect hits the ground running, and Cleveland isn’t expecting all of them to become All-Stars overnight. But the Guardians have shown they can win in different ways-grinding out close games, leaning on pitching and defense, and getting just enough from the offense when it matters.
That’s been the formula, and with Vogt steering the ship-already a two-time AL Manager of the Year-they’re sticking to it.
The Guardians may not have made headlines this winter, but they’re betting that their next wave of talent will. And if the kids can deliver, Cleveland could be right back in the postseason mix, not just as a division threat, but as a team built to surprise.