The Cleveland Guardians’ offense just suffered not one or two, but three huge blows this past weekend. They lost Jose Ramirez, Angel Martinez, and Chase DeLauter to injuries: the first two have already been placed on the injured list, and the rookie is dealing with a small rib fracture and could potentially join them.
We already saw this lineup struggle badly without those three players on Tuesday. The Guardians lost 2-1 in Milwaukee and were limited to four hits.
However, it’s not like they don’t have any more talent in the batting order. The contributions of Kyle Manzardo, Gabriel Arias, Rhys Hoskins, Daniel Schneemann, and especially Brayan Rocchio can’t be overlooked.
In fact, they will need to rely on them at least for the next month or so, potentially longer. And while things could get hairy at times, they could potentially manage to stay afloat thanks to a combination of some of these players stepping up and the pitching staff doing its job.
Rocchio, in particular, could be the X-factor in the next few weeks. Analyst Cade Cracas discussed his potential impact while the aforementioned trio is out.
“[Brayan Rocchio’s] finding ways to impact the game at the plate as well. He might not be drawing the most amount of walks in the world, he’s taken a step forward in that department. I know his stolen base mark is something that’s very controversial because sometimes he’s getting caught stealing, but he’s able to do it. Bazzana’s able to do it. Martinez is able to do it. I don’t think that when you test the waters, it’s gonna be murky. I think it’s going to be just as good as normal. There might be some choppy waves here and there, but I think the Guardians are going to come through on the other side of the storm and be just fine,” Cracas said.
Do you trust Brayan Rocchio to hold down the fort in the 2-hole? Rocchio has taken major strides around his consistency.
"I think the Guardians are going to come through the other side of the storm and be just fine."
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— The Daily Guards (@DailyGuards) June 17, 2026
It’s important to clarify that Martinez’s official diagnosis wasn’t public at the time of releasing this episode, but the point stands. Bazzana is good enough to pick up some of the slack, and so is Rocchio.
Rocchio had been a mediocre hitter for his entire career until 2026, when he finally broke out to the tune of an 110 wRC+, five homers, and 12 stolen bases. He also contributes elite defense at a premium position, and that also wins games.
Manzardo and Arias will also be needed to contribute above-average offensive performance, and they are both capable of delivering. Additionally, the Guardians could call up Cooper Ingle, who boasts an incredible 148 wRC+ in Triple-A. They also have former first-rounder Ralphy Velazquez maturing in Columbus.
It will take a village and some inspired pitching performances, but the Guardians can stay afloat.
NEXT: One Guardians Move Has Turned Out To Be A 'Bad Trade'
