Guardians’ Under-the-Radar Players to Watch in 2026

The Cleveland Guardians probably won’t splash much cash heading into the 2026 season. Still, they’ve got options—maybe more than you’d expect.

This piece digs into a handful of under-the-radar internal candidates. These are players already in Cleveland’s system who could quietly step up if things click just right.

With roster churn always lurking and the payroll on a tight leash, Cleveland needs to squeeze value from its depth. That might end up shaping their season more than any big move could.

Why Internal Options Matter for the Guardians

The Guardians have built their modern identity around player development and depth. They rarely chase splashy free agents, instead banking on small upgrades from within.

This approach means 2026 could be a year where lesser-known names matter more than the headliners. Several players in the upper minors or hovering around the big-league roster offer real, situational value.

Whether it’s platoon bats, swingmen, or bullpen specialists, these pieces can add up over a 162-game grind. It’s not always glamorous, but it works for them.

Underrated Position Players Who Could Contribute

Stuart Fairchild, if he stays healthy, fits the mold of a classic fourth outfielder. He owns a career 106 wRC+ against left-handed pitching and holds his own in center field.

Fairchild could become that lefty-mashing bench guy who doesn’t hurt you defensively. Not a star, but useful.

Petey Halpin is more of a project, but he’s intriguing. At just 23, Halpin flashes enough defense for center and has posted a .760+ OPS against right-handed pitching.

He struggles against lefties, so he’s not an everyday answer. Still, in a platoon-heavy setup, he could carve out a niche.

Kahlil Watson probably has the highest ceiling here. At 22, he’s shown real power and defensive tools, putting up a 129 wRC+ between Double-A and Triple-A.

But those chase and whiff rates? They’re still a problem. He’ll need to tighten that up to stick long-term.

Pitching Depth: The Guardians’ Calling Card

If Cleveland has a superpower, it’s churning out pitching. The 2026 depth chart mixes near-ready arms and intriguing relievers who could make noise with just a bit of progress.

None of these pitchers are likely to break out as stars, but several could eat innings, handle matchups, or steady the bullpen. Sometimes that’s all you need.

Starters, Relievers, and Swingmen to Watch

Will Dion (25) is solid back-of-the-rotation insurance. Over nearly 100 Triple-A innings, he posted a 3.86 FIP with an 8.73 K/9 and 3.66 BB/9.

He’s not flashy, but he’s close to MLB-ready. You could do worse for depth.

Alaska Abney turned heads in Double-A, putting up a 1.44 ERA and 3.12 FIP with great control. His low-slot delivery gives hitters fits and could make him a nasty situational reliever.

Yorman Gomez brings versatility to the table. The 23-year-old logged a 2.96 ERA and 2.76 FIP across High-A and Double-A, mixing a 94–97 mph fastball with serious spin.

He looks like a starter but could end up in the bullpen if things break that way. Either way, he’s interesting.

Steven Perez fits as a lefty reliever after posting a 1.83 ERA and 3.15 FIP in the upper minors. His strikeout-to-walk numbers back it up.

Depth Names Who Could Surprise

Past the main group, a few other names give the organization some insurance and maybe a little late-season upside. Health, performance, and luck will decide who pops up.

Other Players on the Radar

• Pitchers: Jake Miller, Matt Jahec, Peyton Pallette, Connor Brogdon
• Position Players: Wuilfredo Antunez, Tommy Hawke, Jacob Cozart

These players probably won’t break camp with the big club, but you know how it goes. Depth like this often matters by August, whether anyone sees it coming or not.

Final Thoughts on Cleveland’s 2026 Outlook

The Guardians rarely steal the spotlight in the offseason. Still, their internal depth hints at something more interesting beneath the surface.

If a few of these players actually make those developmental leaps, Cleveland might put together another competitive roster. They tend to favor smart deployment over chasing big names, and honestly, that strategy often works.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Under the Radar Players Who Could Help the Guardians’ in 2026