Guardians projected to miss out on best free agents available

The expectations for what the Cleveland Guardians will do in free agency are notably low, but this is not a surprise to anyone. Cleveland is notoriously risk-averse when it comes to making free agent signings and expecting that to change any time soon would be foolish. With that being said, not being projected to sign a single free agent of note is still a bit frustrating.

Authored by Tim Kelly and appearing on Bleacher Report, MLB Free Agency 2024-25: Contract and Landing Spot Predictions for Top 25 Players does not include anything other than a passing mention of the Cleveland Guardians while putting together potential matches between players and teams. From an accuracy standpoint, it is understandable to take this tactic with the Guardians due to the way they have historically operated, but to not include them for even one single player, even if near the bottom of the list, is still somewhat jarring to see.

No one is asking to make unrealistic projections, such as suggesting that Cleveland could be in the running for the services of Juan Soto or Pete Alonso, but there are 25 players on this list, and more than a few of them happen to play a position the Guardians should address this offseason (starting pitcher and outfield). It is not about simply wanting this team to do what they need to, it is about seeing the obvious connection between Cleveland and multiple players on this list that would make sense for the ballclub to seriously pursue.

This offseason is absolutely crucial to the Cleveland Guardians when it comes to capitalizing on their competitive timeline. Coming off an American League Central division and a run to the ALCS, it would be organizational malpractice to not make additions of note. While the most impactful move they may make could come via trade and not a free agent signing, this is a team that must understand that their time is now and need to act accordingly.