The Cleveland Guardians have a wealth of prospects who will make their mark in the major leagues. Some will do so as soon as this Opening Day, while others will have to wait their turn with more development in the minor leagues.
With outfielders Chase DeLauter and George Valera about to play their first full MLB seasons, and infielder Travis Bazzana likely not too far behind, the Guardians have significant young players on the horizon. Others who play similar positions will be arriving someday, just maybe not in 2026.
At spring training, the Guardians announced two roster moves, with infielder Angel Genao and outfielder Khalil Watson being optioned back to the minors.
“Guardians manager Stephen Vogt tells media today that the team has optioned Angel Genao and Khalil Watson,” Mason Horodyski wrote on X.
#Guardians manager Stephen Vogt tells media today that the team has optioned Angel Genao and Khalil Watson.#GuardsBall x @WEWS
— Mason Horodyski (@MasonHorodyski) March 9, 2026
Cleveland has been noted for its patience with their prospects, and in this case, the organization might benefit again. According to MLB.com, Genao is its No. 3 overall prospect, behind Bazzana and DeLauter, and No. 66 in all of baseball.
Watson is the Guardians’ No. 15 prospect, but that ranking does not take into account his excellent spring training this year. He was batting .429 and earned raves from manager Stephen Vogt during his eight-game stint.
The 22-year-old converted infielder was once considered a possible No. 1 overall pick in the MLB Draft, so his potential has always been evident. He played 43 games at Triple-A Columbus last season and should begin this season there.
Genao had a .250 spring batting average in his nine games played. The 21-year-old reached Double-A last season and could join Watson in Columbus, where he may form a double play combination at shortstop with Bazzana at second base.
The moves will allow Vogt to give more playing time to other players truly competing for the Opening Day roster. The final outfield spots are of particular interest, with Nolan Jones’ ongoing struggles at the plate potentially creating an opening for Johnathan Rodriguez to stick with the team.
Meanwhile, the middle infield looks to be set with Gabriel Arias and Brayan Rocchio likely to man those positions, with valuable utility player Daniel Schneeman and prospect Juan Brito also available.
NEXT: Guardians Given Brutal Offseason Review
