Evidence indicates the Cleveland Guardians are a top contender in the American League.
They are coming off a thrilling postseason run that included a series victory against the Detroit Tigers and a close matchup against the New York Yankees despite the seemingly lopsided defeat.
They have brought in key reinforcements on the pitching side and trusted their offense to the young guys, led by phenomenal veteran Jose Ramirez, of course.
Yes, they had a couple of relevant losses roster-wise, but almost every team experienced this to some extent during the offseason.
Despite all this, media and fans continue to look away as the Guardians build a sustainable powerhouse.
It's time to play the game.
IT'S TIME TO PLAY THE GAAAAMEEEEEE!
Presenting the final Power Rankings before the 2025 season begins! pic.twitter.com/IWLU1CsU6G
— MLB (@MLB) March 15, 2025
In their final preseason power rankings, MLB didn’t consider the Guardians for the top ten.
It’s rather odd considering they finished among the four best teams in the league last year and didn’t get worse.
If anything, and despite the losses of Josh Naylor and Andrés Giménez, they got better.
Naylor’s home runs and RBI will be difficult to replace, but Carlos Santana, his replacement, is a more well-rounded player.
The Guards also have Kyle Manzardo ready to be unleashed, and he can also play first base.
Replicating Giménez’s defensive prowess at the keystone will be impossible, but if the Guardians can get league-average production from the position, they will take it.
This is a team that could be sending three aces to the mound in consecutive starts by June if Tanner Bibee and Gavin Williams remain healthy and Shane Bieber makes a successful recovery from Tommy John surgery.
The league is sleeping on the Guardians.
It could be a huge mistake.
NEXT: Guardians Option Promising Lefty To Triple-A
