Fresh off a shocking playoff run, the Guardians are already reshaping their 2026 lineup—and nothing feels off-limits.NL

The Cleveland Guardians weren’t supposed to crash the postseason party last year. But they did – and in doing so, they turned heads across the league. Despite an offense that struggled to consistently produce, the Guardians found a way to win, clinch a division title, and make a playoff run that few saw coming.

Now, as the team turns the page to 2026, expectations are shifting. Stephen Vogt is heading into his third season as manager, already with two division crowns and back-to-back Manager of the Year awards under his belt – not a bad start to a managerial career.

But if Cleveland wants to keep climbing, they’ll need more than just grit. They’ll need production.

And that’s where things get interesting.

According to the latest ZiPS x FanGraphs depth chart projections shared by analyst Dan Szymborski, the Guardians aren’t expected to overhaul the roster. In fact, the 2026 version looks a lot like last year’s squad – a team that overachieved but still left a lot of runs on the table.

One key constant? Steven Kwan.

The steady outfielder remains a foundational piece, and his presence at the top of the lineup continues to set the tone for this team. But around him, there are some notable shifts – and they’re all about injecting youth and upside into a lineup that badly needs a spark.

First base is getting a new look with Kyle Manzardo projected to take over as the everyday starter. The rookie C.J.

Kayfus is expected to back him up, giving Cleveland a fresh lefty-righty combo at the position. It’s a move that signals both confidence in Manzardo’s bat and a willingness to let young talent grow on the job.

At designated hitter, George Valera appears to be in line to take over from David Fry, who’s coming off a tough season. Valera’s ceiling is high, and if he can tap into his power potential, he could be the middle-of-the-order threat this team has been missing. That’s a big “if,” but it’s the kind of gamble that could pay off in a big way.

And speaking of the middle of the order, Jose Ramirez remains the centerpiece. But the hope is that with Manzardo hitting behind him, Ramirez will see better pitches – and more chances to do damage. Protecting your best hitter is baseball 101, and Cleveland is finally in a position to give Ramirez a little more help.

Second base is shaping up to be a bit of a platoon, with Gabriel Arias projected to lead the way while Travis Bazzana and Juan Brito get opportunities to contribute. It’s a mix of versatility and youth – and another sign that the Guardians are leaning into their next generation of talent.

In center field, Chase DeLauter is a name to watch. If he can lock down the position, he brings both athleticism and offensive upside – two things Cleveland could use in the heart of the diamond.

So what does all this mean? The Guardians aren’t looking for a complete overhaul.

They’re betting on internal growth – on young players stepping into bigger roles and delivering. It’s a risky approach, but it’s also one that fits the organization’s identity: smart, patient, and willing to develop from within.

If the kids are ready, the Guardians could be dangerous again. If not, it could be a bumpy ride. But one thing’s for sure – this team isn’t sneaking up on anyone this time.