2 former Guardians from 2023 that will be missed this season and 4 they are better off without

Player That Will Be Missed: Cal Quantrill

As everyone is well aware by now, the Cleveland Guardians dealt with more than their fair share of injuries last season and were forced to start 14 different pitchers last season, 12 of whom made five or more starts last season. The amount of change that their starting rotation saw very early on last year displayed how important depth is to a major league team, and that could make Cal Quantril’s absence felt this season should things play out in a similar manner.

Now, Quantrill was not the most outstanding pitcher on Cleveland’s staff last season, but when removing someone who almost made 20 starts last year from the equation could have a ripple effect on the rest of the rotation.

Barring an injury or trade, it would have been difficult for Quantrill to crack the rotation this year, as Shane Bieber, Triston McKenzie, Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, and Logan Allen seem pretty locked into their rotation spots. But all it takes is something to happen to one of these options, and Quantrill would have been the next man up.

In the meantime, the 29-year-old could have occupied a spot in the bullpen as someone capable of taking over if someone gets shelled early or if a spot start is needed for one reason or another. Even though these are not usually roles considered to be important, having someone capable of pitching competently when the team is in a position of need is something that is truly valuable.