Projecting Guardians 2026 Opening Day roster with spring training around the corner

While the snow hasn't quite melted in Northeast Ohio, we're less than a week away from the start of spring training for the Cleveland Guardians.

Cleveland's pitchers and catchers officially report to camp on Feb. 12, with full-squad workouts starting less than a week late on Feb. 17.

And although the Guardians' front office was frustratingly quiet this winter, it’s time to stop looking at the free agent list and start looking at the guys in the building.

That inaction means the Guardians' strategy is clear: Double down on the young core and elite pitching. And, with that in mind, here's a look at how we think the roster will shake out this season.

Here are our first projections for the Guardians' 2026 Opening Day roster

The Projected Starting Lineup: Trusting the youth

Don't expect many new faces in the starting nine. The Guardians are betting on internal growth to fix an offense that was bottom-tier last season.

LF Steven Kwan: The pesky All-Star and Gold Glover is the undisputed engine at the top.

RF George Valera: After a strong September cameo, the former top prospect should finally get his first full-season shot.

3B José Ramírez: The GOAT. The threee-hole is his until he says otherwise.

1B Kyle Manzardo: Coming off a 27-homer campaign, he’s the muscle this team desperately needs in the cleanup spot.

CF Chase DeLauter: The hype is real. After debuting in the playoffs, he’s ready to be the everyday spark in center.

DH C.J. Kayfus: A natural hitter who showed flashes last year; he provides a professional lefty bat.

2B Gabriel Arias: He hasn't done enough to shake the "super-utility" tag, but he should get yet another shot thanks to his 80-grade arm and power potential.

C Bo Naylor: While he's still the backstop of the future, he's going to be looking for more offensive consistency in 2026.

SS Brayan Rocchio: He provided us with some more "Rocctober" hype last season and should remain the primary option at short, though thehisleash is getting shorter.

The Outlook: The leadoff spot and No. 3 hitter are set in stone, but you could argue that everything else is up for grabs.

Stephen Vogt will be watching closely to see if Arias or Rocchio can finally solidify themselves, or if a dark horse like top prospect Travis Bazzana forces a conversation by mid-April.

The Bench: A mix of vets and injection of speed

Austin Hedges (C): The vibes captain and framing specialist is a lock to hold a roster spot.

Daniel Schneemann (UT): His versatility and reliable glove make him the perfect 26th man.

Ángel Martínez (UT): A switch-hitter who can play anywhere; he’s a Vogt favorite.

Nolan Jones (OF/1B): The comeback story. He needs a big spring to prove his power is back.

Don't forget to keep an eye on the team's youth. Juan Brito could easily grab a roster spot if he picks up his power, while Petey Halpin elite defense could make Jones expendable.

Starting Rotation: The 'big rig' leads the way

Gavin Williams (RHP): The "big rig" takes the Opening Day start. His dominance is becoming too hard to ignore.

Tanner Bibee (RHP): The anchor. Having him as the No. 2 starter could give the Guardians the best 1-2 punch in the Central.

Parker Messick (LHP): The first lefty in the rotation. He impressed everyone last year and looks ready for a full workload.

Slade Cecconi (RHP): "Mr. Consistent." He’s the five-inning stabilizer every winning team needs.

Joey Cantillo (LHP): The improving southpaw rounds out a rotation that leans heavily on youth and swing-and-miss stuff.

The Bullpen: Better than ever

Stephen Vogt recently called this the deepest bullpen he’s seen in three years. Bold words, but the arms back it up.

RHP Cade Smith: He’s got the reigns. A full season of Smith as the primary closer is exactly what Guardians fans need.

RHP Hunter Gaddis: The high-leverage bridge.

RHP Shawn Armstrong: The veteran presence. A strong addition to keep the kids grounded.

Middle Relief: LHP Tim Herrin, RHP Matt Festa, RHP Connor Brogdon, LHP Erik Sabrowski

The Wild Card: RHP Peyton Pallette. Pallette's a Rule 5 pick and the Guardians clearly love his stuff, but is it enough to keep him on the roster? We say yes.

The Strategy: By doubling down on the 'pen and the rotation, the Guardians' front office is hoping the pitching can carry the "youngsters" until the bats catch fire. It’s a gamble, but with two-time manager of the year Vogt pulling the strings, we have no reason to bet against it.