The Cleveland Guardians have to make some moves this offseason.
They need to find another right-handed bat, and it could be a proven slugger for the outfield.
However, they might have an in-house solution already.
Analyst Jensen Lewis recently gushed about prospect Chase DeLauter, who made his much-anticipated MLB debut in the AL Wild Card series against the Detroit Tigers.
“I think the thing you take away is, what a great kid. A lot of competitive [at-bats] in that game. Really showed some discipline in the strike zone. Barring something unforeseen, pencil him in as your Opening Day center fielder next year,” Lewis said.
"Barring something unforeseen, pencil him in as your Opening Day CF." #GuardsBall@JLEWFifty thinks Chase DeLauter is a lock for next season's roster.
Presented by @nefdirect! Get a discount on any item with this form: https://t.co/hE2TsKlAkm pic.twitter.com/TlgzEOkp2D
— BIGPLAY Cleveland Show (@BIGPLAYCLEshow) October 8, 2025
The fact that the Guardians used him in the biggest games of the season speaks volumes about the way the organization feels about the rookie.
DeLauter has excelled at every level he’s played, and while injuries have been a concern, he just needs a chance to be on the field.
The Guardians intended to have him play in the Arizona Fall League, but it now seems they will give him some time off to get back to full strength.
While he didn’t showcase his power in limited at-bats in the playoffs, he’s impressed with his contact and power in the minors.
Of course, the Guardians have to make some other moves as well, and they can’t bank all their hopes on a rookie, but DeLauter definitely is in the mix to make the 2026 roster.
NEXT: Bruce Drennan Raves About Guardians' Future
