Spring training performance of Guardians key offseason acquisition is very concerning

The Cleveland Guardians were able to get by with a patchwork pitching staff in 2024, but they were hoping to avoid having to piece together another one on the fly in 2025. Cleveland entered this past offseason knowing that is unlikely they would experience similar success without a solidified rotation, and as part of their efforts, the Guardians acquired Luis Ortiz from the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Even though it is only spring training, Ortiz's performance in the Cactus League has not been particularly impressive. In fact, it has been quite alarming, as the 26-year-old Ortiz has struggled mightily in Arizona.

Ortiz has allowed 19 runs on 18 hits and 12 walks in 14.2 innings across five spring training starts, a stat line that is far from encouraging. Half of Ortiz's walks issued came in his last start, an outing that saw the Texas Rangers score four runs against him, including there in the 1st inning of Tuesday's 7-3 Guardians loss.

Most of the time, it is not the best idea to judge a player on their performance in spring training, particularly those who play in the hitter-friendly Cactus League. However, when it comes to a starting pitcher having an ERA north of 11 and a WHIP just above 2, it is time to be concerned. Ortiz is walking nearly as many batters as he is striking out (7.4 BB/9, 8.6 K/9) and that's a huge problem.

The Guardians are counting on Ortiz to be a very important part of their starting rotation, and right now, it does not seem like he is capable of providing what they need. Again, it's spring training, and it does not officially count, Ortiz is not necessarily making the best first impression for a team desperately in need of stability in their rotation.

Ortiz had a breakout season of sorts for the Pirates last season, finishing the 2024 season with a 3.32 ERA, 1.113 WHIP, and 7.1 K/9 in 37 games (15 starts). Hopefully, Ortiz will be able to pitch at a similar level in 2025 and not let his disappointing performance in spring training carry over into the regular season.