With Opening Day just around the corner, the Cleveland Guardians are using the final weeks of spring training to solidify its roster, as the team looks to develop young talent and fine-tune its pitching staff.
After finishing 92-69 in first place in the American League Central Division last year, Cleveland enters 2025 with a mix of rising stars and established veterans, hoping to contend in a competitive division.
One of the biggest storylines this spring has been the emergence of first baseman Kyle Manzardo, who has impressed with his bat and defensive versatility. The 24-year-old is hitting .375 with two home runs and eight RBIs in six spring training games played.
“Every day I’m learning and getting more comfortable, I just want to help this team win, wherever they need me,” Manzardo said, according to Cleveland.com.
Cleveland’s rotation remains a strength, led by ace Shane Bieber, who is working his way back from Tommy John surgery after it ended his 2024 campaign. The Guardians will rely on the likes of right-hander Tanner Bibee, who had a career year last year, Triston McKenzie, Gavin Williams, and newly-acquired Luiz Ortiz. The Guardians also produce many high-level arms at the Triple A level, who may potentially help the Tribe later on in the season.
Manager Stephen Vogt enters his second season at the helm, as he hopes to lead the team to a World Series appearance after a devastating loss in the American League Championship Series to the New York Yankees in 2024. Vogt has emphasized competition and adaptability throughout the offseason, along with team chemistry being a major factor in the team’s success for the 2025 campaign.
“This team has a lot of talent, and we’re going to play aggressive baseball. The guys know what’s expected, and we are building something special,” Vogt said, according to Cleveland.com.
Cleveland’s lineup is led by superstar, Jose Ramirez, who is in his 12th year with the team. Ramirez is a seven-time All Star, four-time Silver Slugger, and future Hall of Famer. The Guardians leadoff hitter, Steven Kwan, looks to continue his dominance at the plate and in the field. Kwan made his first all-star appearance last season, and has won three gold gloves in three seasons, solidifying himself as the best left-fielder in the league.
The Guardians’ bullpen remains a force to be reckoned with, as they have three dominant arms that shut down games in a hurry. Rookie Cade Smith posted a 1.92 ERA in 2024, becoming one of the most commanding relievers in the MLB. Hunter Gaddis is another household name, who made the transition from the starting rotation to the bullpen last year and had a 1.58 ERA. To cap it off, the Guardians can hand the ball over to closer Emmanuel Clase, the most electric pitcher in the game, who was a finalist for the CY Young award in 2024 with a 0.62 ERA.
With Opening Day set for Thursday, March 27 against the Kansas City Royals, Cleveland’s roster decisions in the coming weeks will shape the outlook for a season filled with promise and excitement.
