The Cleveland Guardians have a lot of business to attend to during spring training. So it’s probably a good thing that they are opening up their schedule with a couple of split-squad games.
They will allow more players to jump right into action as manager Stephen Vogt tries to figure out what to do with his lineup, his defense, and his pitching staff. It will also allow some players competing for those jobs a chance to make a mark.
The Guardians have announced their lineups for their spring training games against the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers.
Against the Reds:
1. Steven Kwan, LF
2. Angel Martinez, CF
3. Jose Ramirez, 3B
4. Bo Naylor, C
5. Gabriel Arias, SS
6. David Fry, DH
7. C.J. Kayfus, 1B
8. Johnathan Rodriguez, RF
9. Juan Brito, 2B
SP Logan Allen
Against the Brewers:
1. Chase DeLauter, CF
2. Brayan Rocchio, SS
3. Kyle Manzardo, 1B
4. Austin Hedges, C
5. Daniel Schneemann, 3B
6. George Valera, DH
7. Nolan Jones, RF
8. Petey Halpin, LF
9. Travis Bazzana, 2B
SP Joey Cantillo
Double-barrel action to start Cactus League play.
Who has it better than us?#GuardsSpring pic.twitter.com/hV8tY50v2J
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) February 21, 2026
The lineups look to be split almost evenly from the projected regular-season starting nine. Kwan, Ramirez and Naylor were likely given the veteran benefit of playing in the home game against the Reds in Goodyear, Arizona, while top prospects DeLauter and Bazzana will make their debuts on the road against the Brewers in Phoenix.
Fans are able to watch both games for free via Fubo.tv. There are multiple things to keep an eye on as the Guardians plan for the season ahead.
Though not a lot, if anything, should be taken from the lineups in the first spring training games, it is worth noting that Kwan remains in his usual spot in left field despite a plan for him to possibly move to center field this season. Also, DeLauter playing center in the same lineup with Jones in right field could be an indicator of things to come.
In addition, starting pitchers Logan Allen and Joey Cantillo get the first chance to make a first impression as they attempt to hold on to their spots in the rotation. There are six pitchers but only five openings, and a good or bad performance to begin the competition could set an early tone.
The fact that Juan Brito is playing second base is also noteworthy. Though Bazzana may be considered the favorite to win that job, there is a chance that Brito, who may be best suited for a utility role, could overtake him with a strong spring.
All in all, it’s good to see the Guardians back on the field and taking the first step toward another successful season.
NEXT: Analyst Predicts Guardians' Biggest Breakout Pitcher In 2026
