4 Cleveland Guardians who have gotten off to a rough start in 2025

Nolan Jones - Outfielder

The much-celebrated return of a former top outfield prospect has not gone as planned, as Nolan Jones has almost been a complete non-factor for the Guardians this season, aside from him drawing a bases-loaded walk to defeat the Chicago White Sox in Cleveland's home opener.

Jones has five hits in 35 at-bats this season, not exactly what the Guardians were hoping to get out of the almost 27-year-old. On the bright side, three of his hits have been doubles, and he has managed to walk six times, but any positive aspect to that is immediately wiped out by his 16 strikeouts, the most on the Guardians this season.

Some will point to the 2023 season as a reason for optimism for Jones, but that is firmly in the rearview mirror now and will only continue to get further away. It is not about what he did in the past, it is about what he is doing right now on this team that matters, and right now, he is not doing much of anything. These types of struggles at the plate would be less of a concern if two other non-Steven Kwan members of Cleveland's outfield were also pulling their weight, but the previously mentioned Lane Thomas and Jhonkensy Noel also find themselves on this list.

The Guardians will most likely give Jones and others on this list an extended look to prove themselves due to the fact that there is no one else to turn to at the moment. Sure, Angel Martinez may force his way into the conversation in center field, and that could result in a shuffle of sorts taking place, but it is best to expect these players to be given every opportunity to prove themselves until they have proven they are not able to perform at an acceptable level.