The Cleveland Guardians might have showcased the effects of the lack of rotation depth in the 2024 MLB postseason, but that doesn’t mean their future at the position isn’t bright.
Injuries and pitchers unexpectedly underperforming affected the depth and quality of the unit to finish the year, but the truth is that the Guardians have multiple quality options in Double-A and Triple-A that could help in the short term.
The projected rotation with everybody healthy is Shane Bieber, Tanner Bibee, Luis L. Ortiz, Gavin Williams and Joey Cantillo, but Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen remain in the mix.
Down in the minor leagues, Cleveland has Doug Nikhazy, Austin Peterson, Ryan Webb, Daniel Espino, and a very promising left-hander: Parker Messick.
Messick, who has an amazing 2024, is working on his changeup ahead of a pivotal 2025 campaign that might see him make the jump to the major leagues.
“Cleveland #Guardians 24yr old LHP prospect Parker Messick working on his changeup out at The Florida Baseball ARMory. Messick struck out 165 batters over 133.2 innings posting a 2.83 ERA and 3.08 FIP in 2025 between High-A Lake County and Double-A Akron,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians 24yr old LHP prospect Parker Messick working on his changeup out at The Florida Baseball ARMory.
Messick struckout 165 batters over 133.2 innings posting a 2.83 ERA and 3.08 FIP in 2025 between High-A Lake County and Double-A Akron. #ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/At6VQ2k42n
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) December 24, 2024
You can see how the pitch tails off to his arm side, giving Messick a legit weapon against right-handed hitters.
The changeup helped him post an incredible campaign in High-A, with a 3.57 ERA in 68 frames.
Then, in Double-A Akron, Messick was even better with a 2.06 ERA in 65.2 innings, positioning himself to get the bulk of his innings in Triple-A Columbus in 2025.
There is a very good chance the Guardians call up Messick at some point in 2025.
He is talented and consistent, traits that might make him a contributor for the Guardians next year.
NEXT: Carlos Santana Made An Unfortunate Move Before Signing With Guardians
