Guardians Urged To Make A Trade For 2 ‘Intriguing’ Outfielders

The Cleveland Guardians are prioritizing offensive upgrades this offseason after struggling at the plate throughout the 2025 season.

Their lineup issues affected multiple positions, but the outfield remains the most pressing area of concern.

Center and right field in particular need significant improvement heading into next year.

Recent reports indicate that Cleveland has been encouraged to explore trades for outfielders who could address these gaps.

“Who could be available via trade is less certain, though MLB Network insider Jon Morosi noted Wednesday that the Angels will listen to offers on Taylor Ward and Jo Adell this winter. Both are intriguing given their power, and you can envision either serving as protection behind José Ramírez,” MLB.com’s Tim Stebbins wrote.

The Guardians plan to give younger outfielders opportunities next spring.

Chase DeLauter, the organization’s second-ranked prospect and 58th overall in MLB, will compete for a role alongside George Valera and C.J. Kayfus.

A full season from that group could improve production, but adding a veteran presence is also under consideration.

Cleveland specifically wants a right-handed bat to balance their heavily left-handed roster.

The numbers from 2025 highlight the urgency. Guardians center fielders combined for a 60 wRC+ and a .574 OPS, both the worst marks in MLB.

Right fielders posted a 70 wRC+ and a .605 OPS, ranking 29th and 30th, respectively.

Against left-handed pitching, the team managed just a .647 OPS overall with outfielders producing only .605.

Cleveland’s current outfield depth includes Steven Kwan, Chase DeLauter, George Valera, C.J. Kayfus, Nolan Jones, Will Brennan, and Daniel Schneemann.

All of them bat left-handed. Ward and Adell each hit more than 35 home runs in 2025, with Ward launching 36 and Adell 37.

José Ramírez led the Guardians with 30.

Ward played exclusively in left field last season but has experience across all three outfield spots. Adell split time between center field and right field.