The Cleveland Guardians have moves to make this offseason.
Though they could stand to make a splash, they’re likely going to sign players to short-term, low-money deals and hope to patch the flaws on the roster with a few newcomers.
However, given their current foundation and the way they’ve always found and developed young talent, the team cannot be overlooked.
That’s why Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report has the Guardians at No. 12 in his offseason power rankings.
“Over the past eight years, the only multiyear deals the Guardians handed out in free agency went to Josh Bell (2/$33M) and Shane Bieber (2/$26M), and both were traded before those contracts ended. Expecting them to do anything of significance to improve the roster is probably wishful thinking. In fact, the most likely move might be trading away Steven Kwan, who is a free agent after the 2027 season and saw his name surface in trade rumors this summer. They do a great job developing their own in-house talent, but that has yet to push them over the top,” Reuter wrote.
Moving on from Kwan might not be the type of move that indicates a desire to compete for the World Series, and, unless they get real value in return, chances are they’re not going to be better without him.
That being said, they have plenty of high-ceiling options waiting for their turn in the outfield.
If they can stay healthy, George Valera and Chase DeLauter could become All-Stars.
C.J. Kayfus could also contribute there, although he might be better suited to play first base.
Whatever the case, the Guardians will most likely stick to their formula of not spending much and trusting their in-house talent to take care of business.
NEXT: Analyst Says Guardians Are 'Long Shots' To Sign All-Star Shortstop
