The Cleveland Guardians have put together a deep group of starting pitchers vying for rotation spots in their spring training camp in Goodyear, Arizona.
You can argue about how good these starters are individually and as a unit, but there is no question that there are plenty of names and options, most of which have been successful as major leaguers before or are promising prospects.
As things stand right now, Cleveland is looking at three locks for the rotation.
“Cleveland #Guardians should have a large contingent of arms competing for the 4th and 5th starting rotation spots to start the season. 1) RHP Tanner Bibee, 2) RHP Luis Ortiz, 3) RHP Gavin Williams (Slot Bieber in 1 or 2 when healthy),” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
The names listed here need no introduction.
Even Ortiz, who posted a 3.32 ERA last year, should take a step forward and become a household name for Guardians fans.
The insider then listed the eight names that are more likely to compete for the remaining two spots.
“Arms competing for 4 and 5. LHP Koby Allard, LHP Logan Allen, LHP Joey Cantillo, LHP Doug Nikhazy, RHP Slade Cecconi, RHP Jakob Junis, RHP Ben Lively, RHP Triston McKenzie
Cleveland #Guardians should have a large contingent of arms competing for the 4th and 5th starting rotation spots to start the season.
1) RHP Tanner Bibee
2) RHP Luis Ortiz
3) RHP Gavin Williams* Slot Bieber in 1 or 2 when healthy.
Arms competing for 4 and 5.
LHP Koby…
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) February 14, 2025
If McKenzie is at least 75 percent of the pitcher he was in 2022, when he posted a 2.96 ERA in 191.1 frames, he should be another lock for the rotation.
It will all depend on the health of his elbow and how affected his velocity and command are.
The organization would love to have Cantillo run away with a spot, as he is young, controllable, and talented.
He has to overcome his own walk issues for that to happen, though.
Keep a close eye on Cecconi, as he is an exciting project with great stuff and fantastic extension.
Nikhazy would have to be very impressive in camp to win a place, but he is one to watch for in the future.
Allard is more of an organizational depth arm, and if Cantillo and Allen can’t get in the conversation, the Guards have steady veterans such as Junis and Lively ready to take over.
If Bieber returns to full form eventually and Cantillo, McKenzie or Allen can provide some sort of stability, this could be a solid rotation.
NEXT: Guardians Offer Positive Shane Bieber Update
