The Cleveland Guardians narrowly missed out on a remarkable World Series run in 2024 and are now gearing up for a crucial offseason. To push the team to the next level, the front office must address a few key areas.
Last season, the bullpen was a major strength and will return intact, but an analyst has identified two critical needs for improvement elsewhere.
Jim Bowden of *The Athletic* highlighted these priorities, emphasizing the need to “upgrade starting pitching and add a bat, likely in the outfield.”
With free agents like Shane Bieber, Matthew Boyd, Alex Cobb, and Carlos Carrasco departing, the Guardians may need to bring in multiple starting pitchers to solidify their rotation. The current depth, featuring Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, Ben Lively, and Joey Cantillo, offers limited flexibility.
While the 2024 lineup is locked in for 2025 and beyond, the postseason exposed the need for another standout hitter to strengthen the heart of the batting order.
The team has ample space in the outfield or at the designated hitter position for an experienced offensive contributor. Fortunately, the free agent market includes promising options such as Tyler O’Neill, Teoscar Hernandez, Joc Pederson, and Anthony Santander, any of whom could be an ideal fit.