The Cleveland Guardians moved on from Josh Naylor last offseason.
Trading the slugging first baseman was going to translate into a worse offense, especially considering that they didn’t do anything significant to replace him.
As such, it wasn’t much of a surprise to see them struggle at the plate all year long.
When asked about that, manager Stephen Vogt recently opened up about wanting the players to focus on that part of their games this offseason.
“It’s no secret that we struggled offensively for the majority of the year. … I’ve had a number of conversations with our hitting group. … It’s no secret. We need to generate more offense. We’re working right now to put those thoughts together on what that looks like. We’ve spoken with all of our players individually already on what we feel is best for them to work on this winter. What we’re hoping for is that our players crush the offseason physically, in the weight room, and other things, and come back ready for us to continue to grow together as an offense. Because we did see a lot of exciting individual performances, but also we watched a team come together and find a way to score runs. When you can do those things and then you add in more offense on top of that, it’s going to be a good thing,” Vogt said.
It's no secret, the Guards didn't have a good offensive season in most categories. So how are they going about trying to rectify that? pic.twitter.com/tjjdT5hKSm
— Brendan Gulick (@brendangulick22) October 7, 2025
Of course, that makes sense, and every player should strive to get better and be in the best shape possible.
Then again, that’s not going to be the end of this issue.
Aside from the younger players, and some exceptions like Kyle Manzardo, chances are that most won’t change their game that much.
One can change his approach or batting stance, but they will continue to be more or less the same hitter they’ve always been.
As such, the only true way to address the situation would be to bring in some firepower via free agency or trade.
Prospects Chase DeLauter and George Valera could provide a big offensive punch from the start of next season, but they’re rookies nonetheless.
All players want to do better, and it’s not like they don’t work on their games when the season is over.
However, the Guardians are constructed in a certain way, and though that has some advantages, it also has drawbacks.
At this point, it’s up to the front office to make the necessary moves.
NEXT: Guardians Executive Hints At Potential Plans For Steven Kwan
