The 2025 MLB season may be over, but for the Cleveland Guardians, the roster work is just beginning. After the non-tender deadline passed, the free-agent market opened up a pool of players — and Cleveland appears ready to explore external additions, particularly in two problem areas: the outfield and bullpen.
Among the right-fielders recently non-tendered, Adolis García stands out. Once a consistent power bat — with 141 home runs between 2021 and 2025, tied for 17th most in MLB over that span — García offers some serious upside. In 2025 alone, his 19 home runs and 75 RBIs would have ranked third on the Guardians’ roster. He also brings a strong defensive profile, having been an AL Gold Glove finalist.
However, his production has slipped since 2023, and with Cleveland’s young right-fielders like Chase DeLauter, C.J. Kayfus and George Valera competing for playing time — all of whom bat left-handed — there’s a real question whether García’s right-handed bat fits the club’s long-term outfield philosophy.
Another name to watch: Christopher Morel — who, despite a rough 2025 season (.219/.289/.396 with 11 homers in 105 games), still carries upside. At just 26 and with flashes of strong bat speed and past breakout potential, Morel could be an affordable swing-for-upside addition — though his high strikeout rate and defensive shortcomings raise real concerns.
On the pitching side, Cleveland’s bullpen looks thin after departures and non-tenders. Among potential fits: Mark Leiter Jr., a right-hander with four solid seasons between the Cubs and Yankees; Joey Lucchesi, a lefty reliever who posted strong ground-ball rates in 2025; and Evan Phillips, a high-leverage arms — though his recovery from Tommy John surgery complicates his immediate availability.
Each option comes with pros and cons. Cleveland must balance the desire for instant upgrades with long-term roster construction, integrating young talent while plugging glaring weaknesses.
Rather than commit long-term or costly deals, the Guardians may choose a hybrid approach — signing one or two veterans while giving promising youngsters a legitimate shot in Spring Training. That could preserve payroll flexibility and maximize upside, especially in a competitive AL Central. As highlighted in their offseason FAQ, the team may prefer short-term deals for players like outfielder Lane Thomas or reliever Jakob Junis, who could still fill specific roster roles.
This offseason could well define whether the Guardians remain contenders — or fall back into mediocrity. A successful free-agent haul could fix the club’s offensive struggles, stabilize the bullpen, and give the roster the balance it needs for a deep 2026 push. On the flip side, a poor offseason could leave holes exposed, giving rivals an edge in a tight division.
For Cleveland fans, all eyes are on the front office. As winter deepens and rumors swirl, the right moves could turn a promising offseason into a significant leap forward.
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