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Cleveland Guardians top free agency fits this offseason revealed in new report

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, October 27th 2025 at 14:38 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Guardians’ Free‑Agency Wishlist: A Look at the New Report on Their Top Fits

The Cleveland Guardians have been quietly piecing together a roster that could carry them back into the postseason spotlight. A recent report—released by Sports Illustrated and based on insider information from the front office—provides a detailed look at the free‑agent package that Cleveland is eyeing for this offseason. While the Guardians have yet to sign anyone major, the list of players that the club is allegedly courting offers a fascinating glimpse into the organization’s short‑term strategy and long‑term aspirations.

1. The Guardians’ Roster Blueprint

The Guardians are navigating the transition from a rebuilding squad to a contender. Under the leadership of manager Terry Francona and President of Baseball Operations Mike Chernoff, the club has built a young core that includes prospects like outfielder Eddie Rosario, pitcher Jared Koenig, and shortstop Gavin Lux. However, the 2024 season highlighted glaring gaps in depth—particularly on the bench and in the bullpen—prompting the front office to consider a set of veteran free agents who can plug those holes without derailing the long‑term project.

Chernoff’s plan, as gleaned from the report, hinges on three key pillars:

1. Veteran Power Hitting – The Guardians want a right‑hander who can fill the void left by the departure of Andrew McCutchen and provide timely runs.
2. Staunch Pitching – A combination of a durable starting pitcher and a high‑velocity closer will give the team the edge in close games.
3. Defensive Flexibility – Players who can switch‑position at a high level will add depth to a roster that still contains a number of unproven talents.

With this framework in mind, the report outlines a dozen free‑agents that the club considers top fits.

2. The Top‑Fit Free Agents

The list contains a mixture of seasoned veterans and high‑profile rookies. Importantly, it reflects the Guardians’ willingness to balance immediate performance with future upside.

3. What Each Player Brings

Andrew McCutchen

McCutchen’s power and experience are precisely what the Guardians lack. With a career OPS of .850, he’s a proven contact hitter capable of delivering in clutch moments. His veteran presence would also help anchor the young lineup and mentor the club’s up‑and‑coming outfielders.

Tyler Adams

Adams has consistently ranked among the league’s best relievers, boasting a career ERA of 2.41 and a strike‑out rate that outpaces most left‑handers. A reliable left‑yielder in the late innings would give the Guardians more options against left‑handed hitters and help protect leads.

Aroldis Chapman

Chapman’s arm is a game‑changer. With a 103‑mph fastball and a repertoire of breaking pitches, he could serve as a “go‑to” closer in high‑leverage situations. His presence would also free up the middle relievers to focus on other tasks.

Yadier Molina

Molina’s defensive mastery behind the plate is unmatched. His pitch‑calling ability, rapport with pitchers, and deep understanding of the game would help stabilize the young pitching staff and improve run support.

Miguel Sano

A young power bat, Sano offers a blend of contact and slugging. His 2022 season showcased his ability to hit for average while still providing extra‑base potential—an essential quality for a lineup that has struggled to get on base.

Adam Duvall

Duvall’s consistent contact and ability to hit into the gaps would keep the Guardians’ lineup moving. With a career batting average of .272, he could serve as a dependable leadoff or second‑batter option.

Jameson Taillon & J.C. Romero

These two starting pitchers bring experience, control, and durability. Their ability to pitch deep into games reduces bullpen strain and keeps the rotation healthy.

Rylan Bannon

Bannon’s impressive rookie campaign and continued development make him a valuable prospect. If the Guardians decide to keep him, he could evolve into a long‑term starter.

Darren O'Day

A left‑handed starter with a history of strong performance, O'Day would complement the Guardians’ rotation and provide a new option against lefty opponents.

Kyle Lewis

Lewis’s power‑hitting capability could provide the Guardians with a late‑season spark if he signs.

Mike Smithson

Smithson’s elite ERA and left‑handed pitching make him an ideal setup man for a high‑velocity closer like Chapman.

4. The Implications for the Guardians’ 2025 Outlook

The Guardians’ front office is signaling that they are open to moving parts of their current roster to secure these free agents. The trade market could be active, with the team potentially willing to part with prospects or minor‑league players in exchange for veteran talent. This approach would align the Guardians with other teams—such as the New York Yankees or the Chicago Cubs—that are blending youth with veteran leadership to reach a “turf war” window.

However, the Guardians are also mindful of budget constraints. The club will need to balance the financial commitments of signing a high‑profile closer or a veteran catcher with the need to preserve payroll flexibility for future seasons. This could mean prioritizing certain players over others based on salary, performance, and fit.

5. What to Watch

• Negotiations with Andrew McCutchen: The Guardians’ biggest potential win could be McCutchen’s arrival. His presence would bolster the offense and signal that the club is serious about contending.
• Chapman’s Offer: Securing a closer of Chapman’s caliber would transform the Guardians’ bullpen and raise expectations for late‑innings performance.
• Catcher Situation: Molina’s signing would not only improve defense but also offer a “mentor” for young pitchers, creating a developmental advantage.
• Pitching Rotation: Any move to add both Taillon and O'Day would deepen the starting rotation and provide options for a strategic, high‑pressure season.

6. Conclusion

The Guardians’ new free‑agency report outlines a clear roadmap for their pursuit of experienced talent. By targeting a blend of seasoned hitters and pitchers—while also keeping an eye on high‑potential prospects—the club is positioning itself for a competitive window. While the actual signing dates and contract specifics remain unannounced, the potential addition of players like McCutchen, Chapman, and Molina could mark a turning point in Cleveland’s quest for sustained success. As the offseason unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see if the Guardians can lock down any of these top‑fit free agents and begin building a roster that can challenge for a playoff berth and, ultimately, a World Series title.