The Cleveland Guardians have won the AL Central division in both seasons under Stephen Vogt’s guidance. It’s not the strongest division by any means, but that’s still a remarkable accomplishment.
The Detroit Tigers looked like a strong contender last season, but they fell back to Earth in the second half of the campaign. Now, with all the uncertainty regarding Tarik Skubal’s future with the organization, that may no longer be the case.
More than that, the Guardians are a pretty deep team right now, especially when it comes to pitching. That’s why, as things stand now, Bruce Drennan believes they’re the team to beat in the division.
Talking on his show, the controversial pundit stated that the Guardians have a ‘beautiful problem’ on their hands right now, as they essentially have more starting-caliber pitchers and solid bullpen options than they can play.
“I’m really confident about the Guardians being the team to beat in our division,” Drennan said.
"I'm really confident about the Guardians being the team to beat in our division."
Screw your offseason moves, we've got dinner at home!
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— Bruce Drennan Show (@Bruce_Drennan) January 4, 2026
More than that, he believes that the young players — George Valera, C.K. Kayfus, and Chase DeLauter — will all play big roles on the team next season. That’s clearly also what the team expects; otherwise, they would’ve made some signings.
Truth be told, he makes perfect sense. The Minnesota Twins and Chicago White Sox will probaby be bottom-feeders again next season, and the Tigers cannot be trusted, even if Skubal stays.
It’s not going to be easy, and there will be major concerns to address regarding the offense — again.
But if the youngsters live up to the expectations, the Guardians should be the best team in the AL Central in 2026.
NEXT: Insider Raises Major Question About Guardians' Outfield
