💥 BREAKING NEWS: The Guardians turn their attention to Travis Bazzana after a key Winter Meetings update sparks new momentum around Cleveland’s plans ⚡.NL
Guardians Winter Meetings Notebook: Health Updates, Roster Moves, and a Look Ahead
ORLANDO – As the Winter Meetings got underway, Guardians president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti met with reporters and offered a wide-ranging update on the team’s offseason progress. From injury recoveries to coaching additions, it’s clear the Guardians are focused on building a deeper, more resilient roster heading into 2026.
Travis Bazzana Back on Track
Let’s start with the top pick from the 2024 draft. Travis Bazzana, who dealt with oblique issues last season, is back in action and fully healthy.
He’s returned from Australia and is currently training at the Guardians’ facility in Goodyear, Arizona. The organization remains high on his upside, and he’s expected to represent Australia in the World Baseball Classic this March – a great opportunity for him to get live reps before spring training.
George Valera Gets a Fourth Option
Outfielder George Valera, who made his big-league debut last season, will have a little more developmental runway. The Guardians secured a fourth minor league option on him, thanks to the string of injuries that have interrupted his progress. Valera’s plate approach continues to impress the front office, and with that extra flexibility, the team can give him the time he needs to grow into a consistent contributor.
Juan Brito Returns to Action
Infielder Juan Brito is another player who was granted a fourth option due to injury. After missing a significant chunk of last season with a right hamstring issue, Brito is back on the field and currently playing winter ball. The Guardians like his bat and versatility, and his return to full health gives the team another intriguing infield option heading into spring.
Chase DeLauter’s Defensive Role Expands
Chase DeLauter, a promising outfield prospect whose career has been slowed by injuries, will get an expanded look this spring. The Guardians plan to test him in both center and right field.
They’ll be cautious with his workload, but the goal is to see if he can handle the demands of multiple outfield spots while staying healthy. If he can, it adds another layer of flexibility to the roster.
Kyle Manzardo Bulking Up
First baseman Kyle Manzardo was given a clear offseason assignment: get stronger. He took it to heart, reportedly adding 14 pounds of muscle.
The Guardians want him to handle a heavier load at first base in 2026, and the added strength should help him withstand the grind of a full season while adding some extra pop to his bat. New manager Stephen Vogt will be watching closely this spring to see how Manzardo’s physical gains translate on the field.
Coaching Staff Settling In
The Guardians’ coaching staff is coming into focus. New hires Andy McKay (field coordinator) and Tony Arnerich (bench coach) are in Orlando, getting further acquainted with the organization.
Both came over from the Mariners in November and have already spent time in Cleveland meeting with players and staff. With those additions, the Guardians’ major league coaching staff appears set for the 2026 season.
Corey Kluber Staying Involved
Two-time Cy Young winner Corey Kluber will continue in his role as a pitching consultant in 2026. The Guardians were pleased with the impact he made last season, especially in helping young arms adjust to the big leagues. Kluber’s wealth of experience and calm demeanor have made him a valuable resource for the pitching staff – and his return is a quiet but important win for the organization.
Streaming Deal Won’t Move the Needle Financially
On the business side, Antonetti acknowledged that the team isn’t expecting a significant bump in TV revenue, even after ESPN acquired the Guardians’ in-market streaming rights for the next three years. While it’s a notable shift in how fans will access games, it won’t dramatically change the financial landscape for roster building.
Nolan Jones Gets Another Shot
One of the more intriguing moves this offseason was the Guardians signing Nolan Jones to a one-year, $2 million deal. Jones struggled last season, hitting just .211 with five home runs and 34 RBI. But the front office still sees untapped potential.
“Nolan did not have the season he envisioned,” Antonetti said. “We still believe there’s positive potential for a real productive player in there.
He demonstrated that with the Rockies (2023) when he was one of the better outfielders in the National League. We’re hopeful that with a good offseason of work, he can get back closer to that player.”
It’s a classic low-risk, high-upside move – and if Jones can rediscover his 2023 form, it could pay dividends.
On Tarik Skubal: “I’d Be Happy to Face Him as Little as Possible”
When asked about the possibility of Tigers ace Tarik Skubal being traded out of the AL Central, Antonetti didn’t mince words.
“I’d be happy to face him as little as possible moving forward,” he said. “He’s really good.”
That about sums it up. Skubal has emerged as one of the most dominant arms in the division, and any shift that gets him out of Cleveland’s path would be welcomed – even if it’s out of their control.
As the Winter Meetings continue, the Guardians are quietly laying the groundwork for a season that could hinge on health, development, and a few breakout performances. There’s no splashy headline yet, but the pieces are coming together – and the front office seems confident in the direction they’re heading.
