The Cleveland Guardians are more than one-third of the way through their spring training schedule, but they still have plenty of time to answer some lingering questions before the regular season begins. However, through 12 games so far, the projected Opening Day lineup is taking shape, and it could include a notable surprise.
Even though Rhys Hoskins has struggled at the plate after signing early in camp, the veteran could be carving out a role that wasn’t even on the radar a month ago. The unexpected development could also have a huge effect on two young players, with one possibly bound for the minor leagues.
Analyst Joel Reuter recently made some big predictions about the Guardians’ 2026 lineup, and they include a job for Hoskins as the starting first baseman, a new position for Kyle Manzardo, and a potential demotion for CJ Kayfus.
“Projected Lineup: CF Steven Kwan, RF George Valera, 3B Jose Ramirez, DH Kyle Manzardo, 1B Rhys Hoskins, LF Chase DeLauter (R), 2B Gabriel Arias, C Bo Naylor, SS Brayan Rocchio,” Reuter wrote. “The Guardians added slugger Rhys Hoskins on a minor league deal on Feb. 23, and his contract will be worth $1.5 million if he makes the team. Kyle Manzardo can easily slot at designated hitter if he wins a job, and the ripple effect would push CJ Kayfus to either challenge for a spot in the outfield or return to Triple-A for regular playing time.”
Based on Hoskins’ recent history – he missed all of the 2023 season with an ACL injury and much of last season with a thumb injury – the Guardians might think better of playing him in the field and use him at DH instead. That would put Manzardo back at first base, where he finished last season after Carlos Santana was released.
But that would still leave Kayfus’ roster spot in jeopardy. He made his major league debut last August and helped the Guardians rally to win the AL Central. Heading into the offseason, he was penciled into the lineup as the primary DH.
It looked like that could be written in pen, as the Guardians did nothing to significantly upgrade their offense during the winter, despite much criticism. They finally made a move to sign Hoskins, who had been one of the most consistent power hitters in the game with the Philadelphia Phillies.
He also hit 26 home runs for the Milwaukee Brewers in 2024, so he was worth the low-risk contract the Guardians were able to use to land him. However, the ripple effect could be significant.
With little room available for Kayfus in the outfield, he may have to go back to the minors and wait for another chance in the majors.
NEXT: Insider Reveals Why Rhys Hoskins Likely Chose The Guardians
