While Parker Messick was only with the Guardians for a month and a half in 2025, he still found a way to make an impression. In seven starts with the Guardians, the 25-year-old left-hander posted a 2.72 ERA in 39 2/3 innings while Cleveland sprinted toward an American League Central title.
But even though Messick finished the season as the ninth-most valuable Guardian by terms of bWAR, he kept his rookie status intact for 2026 and should be a favorite for the AL’s Rookie of the Year award next season.
Parker Messick has a legitimate shot at winning Rookie of the Year in 2026
Messick’s strong showing with the Guardians last season was the final step in Messick’s gradual ascent through organized baseball.