The Cleveland Guardians are already seeing something special unfold early in the 2026 season, and manager Stephen Vogt is not holding back when talking about Chase DeLauter.
After DeLauter’s incredible start, Vogt made it clear just how impressed he has been with the young outfielder’s approach, especially in high-pressure moments.
“It’s special, especially after his first five at bats,” Vogt said. “I mean, that shows the maturity right there. He had a tough night up into that point, and obviously facing one of the best closers in the league, if not the best closer in the league. And to hit a ball oppo at Seattle at night when it’s cold, that takes some kind of power. But just to come up in that moment, you know, gets the challenge wrong, that can speed you up on an 0-5 night, he’s just showing his poise. And that was pretty special.”
#Guardians manager Stephen Vogt on Chase DeLauter’s historic home run stretch:
“It's special, especially after his first 5 at bats. I mean, that shows the maturity right there. He had a tough night up into that point, and obviously facing one of the best closers in the league,…
— Mason Horodyski (@MasonHorodyski) March 29, 2026
DeLauter’s early-season surge has been nothing short of historic.
He wasted no time making his presence felt, launching two home runs in his MLB debut against the Seattle Mariners. That performance immediately put him in rare company in league history and set the tone for what has become a remarkable opening stretch.
And he has not slowed down since. That composure is rare for a rookie.
Many young hitters would press after a rough early start, which saw him strikeout in three of his four plate appearances on Saturday. Instead, DeLauter stayed patient, trusted his swing, and delivered in one of the toughest hitting environments in baseball.
For the Guardians, this is exactly what they have been hoping to see.
The organization has been counting on young players to take meaningful steps forward this season, and DeLauter is quickly emerging as a centerpiece of that movement.
If DeLauter continues on this trajectory, the conversation around him will only grow louder about his potential.
And if Vogt’s reaction is any indication, the Guardians believe they may have something truly special on their hands.
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