5 Guardians who could earn postseason award votes in 2026

If the 2025 MLB season taught us anything, it’s that the Cleveland Guardians thrive when the "experts" count them out. After a historic comeback to snatch the American League Central, the Guardians have some clear momentum headed into 2026 (even if they've had a quiet offseason).

With that in mind, here are five Guardians who have a legitimate shot to earn postseason award votes during the 2026 season.

These five Guardians could earn votes for postseason awards in 2026

American League MVP: José Ramírez

Let’s get the obvious one out of the way first. Ramírez is the heart and soul of this franchise and he's earned MVP votes in each of the past six seasons. Could next season be the year where the voters get it right?

This could be the year where the Guardians give the 33-year-old Ramírez more time at designated hitter to keep his legs fresh, which could leads a massive offensive benefit since less time grinding on the dirt at third base could result in him having more energy at the plate.

If he puts up another 30/30 or 40/40 season while leading the Guardians to another division crown, the narrative will be almost impossible to ignore. It's time to give the GOAT his trophy.

American League Cy Young: Gavin Williams

Tanner Bibee may have the name recognition after getting a long-term extension last spring, but Williams has the raw "stuff" needed to become a shutdown ace. Williams showed us exactly what he’s capable of last season, as he finished the year with a 3.06 ERA after a dominant second half.

The formula for Williams to have more success is easy: control. He dominated last year despite leading all of baseball in walks, so the sky is the limit for him if he's able to cut those down.

If Williams can refine his command (thus giving him the ability to pitch deeper into games), his numbers will be off the charts. With his high-90s fastball and a dizzying new sweeper, Williams isn't just a starter; he’s a Cy Young contender.

American League Rookie of the Year: Chase DeLauter

The Guardians showed us exactly how much faith they have in DeLauter by giving him the opportunity to make his big league debut in the postseason last year.

DeLauter is the total package in that he's versatile outfielder who hits for both average and power who can play all three outfield positions.If he's able to stay healthy (which has been the only thing holding him back), he'll be a favorite for this award.

We're also going to give an honorable mention to Daniel Espino. Even though we've been waiting for his debut for what seems like a lifetime, ge looked electric in the Arizona Fall League and is poised to debut this year. Don't be surprised if he comes up and inserts himself into the Rookie of the Year conversation with 102-mph heat.

American League Reliever of the Year: Cade Smith

The "Big Maple" is ready for the spotlight. After a 2024 season for the books and a 2025 season where he stepped into the closer role late in the season, Smith is the undisputed anchor of the Guardians' bullpen.

While he had a few rough outings last year, but the underlying numbers are terrifying for hitters. He struck out 104 batters in 73 innings last year and has a fastball that ranks as one of the most valuable pitches in the game.

With a full season as the primary closer, Smith is going to rack up the saves and strikeouts at a pace that will make him a favorite for Reliever of the Year.

American League Manager of the Year: Stephen Vogt

Could we actually see an unprecedented three-peat? Vogt has already made history by winning back-to-back Manager of the Year awards in his first two seasons, and the Guardians are one good season away from him winning his third in a row.

Vogt took what the outside world saw as an underperforming roster and turned them into a division-winning juggernaut, twice. He has the magic touch with the bullpen and has built a great clubhouse culture.

If Vogt can improve on last year's record and navigate the youth movement we have coming, the voters might have no choice but to give it to him again. In Vogt we trust.