With spring training on the horizon, members of the Cleveland Guardians are getting ready for the 2026 season. They know they will have to be fully focused on the task at hand to win the AL Central for a third straight year.
Some players, like star third baseman Jose Ramirez, are increasing their workouts to get ready. Others may be tending to off-field matters before heading to camp.
The latter is the case for pitcher Parker Messick, who made a big personal announcement by getting engaged.
“Congratulations to Cleveland Guardians LHP Parker Messick on his engagement,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Congratulations to Cleveland #Guardians LHP Parker Messick on his engagement. 💍 pic.twitter.com/rBtZMV5dqP
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) January 11, 2026
The 25-year-old made his MLB debut last season and could be a vital part of the Guardians’ rotation in 2026. He made seven starts in 2025, posting a 3-1 record with a 2.72 ERA and 38 strikeouts in 39.2 innings.
A second-round pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Messick moved more quickly than most through the organization. His late-season arrival was crucial in the Guardians’ overcoming a historic deficit to win the division.
Manager Steve Vogt decided to use a six-man rotation, and Messick was a key component of that unorthodox strategy. In early September, he won consecutive starts, allowing just one run over six innings in each game. However, he was not on the playoff roster for the AL Wild Card series against the Detroit Tigers, though he likely would have been added if the Guardians had been able to advance to the ALDS.
Messick is not the only player with big personal news this offseason. Outfielder Nolan Jones announced that he got married.
As a team, the Guardians haven’t generated many headlines, and they are actually perceived as taking a step “backwards” due to their lack of acquisitions. With a lineup that will be counting heavily on prospects George Valera, Chase DeLauter and Travis Bazzana, the pitching staff may have to carry the team again, at least early in the season.
Fortunately, Messick and fellow starters Gavin Williams and Slade Cecconi could have even more potential than their young position-playing teammates, which could make this another very successful season in Cleveland.
NEXT: Guardians Named Possible Fit For Gold Glove Outfielder
