The Cleveland Guardians' 2025 campaign highlighted a critical imbalance on the team's roster, as they had a stellar pitching staff that held its own throughout the season paired next to a barely-adequate offense that consistently undermined the team’s ability to win.
While there are plenty of hitters on the roster who will need to step up if the Guardians want to make a deep run into October in 2026, these three young hitters stand out as the top options who need to take the next step.
The Guardians are going to need more from Kyle Manzardo, Gabriel Arias and Chase DeLauter in 2026
Kyle Manzardo
Although Manzardo hit 27 home runs last season, he needs to refine his approach at the plate.