The Guardians pulled off a miracle, not only making the playoffs but taking the AL Central championship from the Tigers in the final weeks of the season. However, it wasn’t enough to prevent them from losing the AL Wild Card Series to their division rivals, sending them home just days into the playoffs. Now that the offseason is upon us, Cleveland’s front office has turned its attention to the 2026 season. As The Athletic’s Zach Messer discussed earlier this week, president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti told reporters after the Guardians’ loss that improving production in right field and center field will be a top priority this offseason.
This isn’t necessarily surprising. General manager Mike Chernoff noted to reporters (including Messer) that the club ranks 28th in points per game this year and described the offense as “clearance area” Needs improvement next season. Getting more offense from the outfield should be the easiest way by far, as the Guardians’ outfielders have a wRC+ of 77 this year, which ranks 29th in the majors. Part of the reason is left fielder Steven KwanWhile he still posted a 99 wRC+, handling left field again for Cleveland in 2026 seems to be a pretty safe bet, barring an unexpected trade.
While there’s little reason to worry about Kwan in left wing, the same can’t be said for the other two outfield positions. Angel Martinez, Nolan Jones, Ryan Thomasand John Kensi Noel Handling the majority of reps at these positions, all four have a negative WAR performance according to Fangraphs data this season. Thomas will become a free agent after playing just 39 games this year due to injury. The other three will remain under club control next year, but none inspire confidence next year.
Some opportunities for improvement may come from within. Chase Drout Having yet to make his regular season debut but appearing in the Wild Card Series, Messer relayed that Antonetti expects him to compete for a roster spot in spring training next year. rookie George Valera Posted a 113 wRC+ in 16 games this year and could get a chance next year as well. Perhaps an outfield with Kwan in left, Drout in center and Valera in right could help the Guardians, but to be fair, at least one outfielder is needed to provide some certainty and possibly help balance out three left-handed outfielders and a right-handed hitter.
A reunion with Thomas is at least possible, but with him hitting just .189/.258/.340 in 92 games over the past two seasons with the Guardians, a change of scenery might be best for both parties. Harrison Bader Perhaps an ideal acquisition for the team, but his stellar work with the Phillies (129 wRC+ in 50 games) may put him out of Cleveland’s price range. Rob Refsnyder and Austin Hayes Both will become free agents this winter. rangers outfielder Adolis Garcia and Astros outfielder. Chas McCormick Both are possible non-tender candidates who could also help improve Cleveland’s outfield mix and lead to a bounce-back season.
