Locked On Indians

While Cleveland Guardians fans want and deserve offensive upgrades, Juan Brito is a prospect that has been overlooked that could help in 2026. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis discuss the forgotten Juan Brito and the red-hot Ralphy Velazquez, unpacking why they are important prospects heading into the next few seasons. With second base wide open and Travis Bazzana waiting in the wings, could Brito’s bat help out of the gate. Plus, Velazquez climbs MLB Pipeline’s first base prospect rankings. Does he outperform hyped names like Charlie Condon and set himself up for a major league debut sooner than expected?  The show analyzes the evolving Guardians infield, looking into the importance of defense for ground ball-heavy pitching, and debating whether Brito or Velazquez best fits the team’s vision. We also dive into Shawn Armstrong’s new arsenal after a career-best season, and what his improvement means for the Guardians bullpen. Stick around for possible trade scenarios with the Dodgers and Mets to take advantage of de

Cleveland Guardians take a different approach to international signing day with a underrated trade acquisition and some different player archetype, landing promising pitcher Franklin Gomez from the Mets. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians’ evolving international free agency strategy, highlighting Gomez’s ceiling, pitch mix, and the organization’s shift toward targeting higher-upside talent. The episodes dives into the signings of Svert Reinoso, Christopher Brujan, and Wilbur Reinoso and questioning whether Cleveland’s willingness to invest more in pitching and raw tools signals a new era for the farm system. We get a little spicy over MLB’s broken spending model, the disparity in team payrolls, and Travis Bazzana’s MLB spring training invite.   04:50 Underrated Potential in Franklin Gomez07:44 Smart Prospect Strategy Boosts Cleveland14:02 Shortstops, Traits, and Player Growth16:30 Prospect's Upside and Uncertainty21:48 Switch-Hitting Shortstop with Potential24:26 Travis Bazzana Spring Trainin

Did Joey Cantillo show the Cleveland Guardians enough in 2025 to emerge as a rotation staple for 2026? Can the lefty’s improved curveball and durability offset lingering walk issues and claim a mid-rotation role? Justin Lada discusses Cantillo’s strengths, dives into promising  pitching metrics, and explains why health and velocity gains are key to him taking the next step for the Guardians.This episode also gives assessments of fellow 2025 prospect graduates CJ Kayfus, Eric Sabrowski, and Jonathan Rodriguez. The show also investigates the minor-league deal for former Nationals first-rounder Carter Kieboom, questioning whether he adds real depth or is merely Triple-A filler. Plus, Justin breaks down the tools and analytics that drive his prospect rankings.Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.Click here to learn more and join your team

The Chicago Cubs signed Alex Bregman to a huge deal. Could the Cleveland Guardians trade for Cubs’ Nico Horner to help with struggling offense? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis debate the likelihood and wisdom of such a deal, questioning whether Cleveland’s reluctance to part with prospects keep the club stuck in neutral despite glaring lineup weaknesses.The show also dives into the Guardians’ reputation as the league’s top “prospect hoarders,” according to a recent MLB Pipeline executive survey. Do Cleveland’s negotiation tactics and high prospect valuations hold them back from necessary improvements? We also discuss farm system rankings, player development strengths and weaknesses, and how front office philosophies impact trades for bats and pitching.     Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s

Cleveland Guardians fans are missing a key roster misstep: the departure of Spencer Horwitz, whose breakout made him one of MLB’s most productive first basemen in the second half. Jeff Ellis exposes why retaining Horwitz could have transformed the lineup, potentially reshaping the heart of the Guardians’ batting order and offering much-needed on-base prowess between Steven Kwan, José Ramírez, and Kyle Manzardo. Jeff Ellis also tackles the fallout from the collapse of Bally Sports—now FanDuel Sports Network—the effects it has had on Cleveland’s payroll flexibility and raises questions about the franchise’s ability to compete amid shrinking TV revenues. The show unpacks front office strategy, recent arbitration results, the addition of hard-throwing Italian prospect Ettore Giulianelli, and the trade market’s glacial pace. Is Cleveland set to pull the trigger on a transformative move, or will budget constraints keep them quiet as Opening Day approaches?  Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to

Cleveland Guardians fans are dealing with a quiet offseason. While they  have needs to fill, internal development is still the driver they do need, even if we don't like it. Justin Lada breaks down why the Guardians’ path to success hinges on breakout from Bo Naylor, Chase DeLauter, and Kyle Manzardo, and why supplementing homegrown talent, not flashy free-agent signings, remains their blueprint. We also discuss the need for improved international development, the pitfalls of recent high school draft picks, and how MLB’s technology regulations could damage Cleveland’s competitive edge. We talk about buying a trade still being possible, holding on the Guardians patience during a slow free agent winter, and falling stock in prospects like Jaison Chourio.Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.Click here to learn more and join your team’s c

New year, new bold predictions for the Cleveland Guardians for 2026. Can Chase DeLauter finally stay healthy and become a Rookie of the Year contender? Will Kyle Manzardo deliver the power bat the lineup desperately needs, and could Joey Cantillo? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis discuss which prospects and relievers could make a splash like Yorman Gomez or Daniel Espino.We also get into Bo Naylor’s make-or-break season at catcher, trade possibilities involving Logan Allen and Cooper Ingle, and the need for the Guardians to find stability up the middle. With the lineup in need of reliable run producers behind José Ramírez, the show breaks down what must happen for Cleveland to take the next step and whether the front office will finally pull the trigger on a major trade to shake up their chances.   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Clic

Cleveland Guardians  face burning questions as 2026 approaches: Can David Fry rebound, and is Chase DeLauter finally primed for a healthy season? Justin Lada weighs the buy, sell, and hold scenarios for key Guardians hitters, looking at advanced platoon splits and pressing roster decisions. We debate Angel Martinez's sustainability against lefties, what the rotation should look like and whether the lineup has enough power to keep pace.We give our Roster Projection 2.0 and explore realistic trade targets. Could Nico Hoerner be the answer up the middle? The show goes through a mix of stats-driven insights, lineup analysis, and reflections on Cleveland’s offseason strategy.Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubSupport Us By Supporting Our S

Cleveland Guardians continue to face offseason uncertainty as fans question the front office’s commitment to upgrading the team’s outfield offense. Will Mike Chernoff’s statement about improving the lineup become reality, or are Guardians supporters doomed to watch another year of internal development and minor-league deals? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis challenge the front office’s “watch what they do, not what they say” reputation, scrutinizing the lack of substantial moves and reflecting on past trades involving names like Brandon Moss, Jordan Luplow, and Carlos Santana. The show also breaks down the AL Central landscape, debating whether Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, or Minnesota Twins have done enough to threaten the Guardians’ chances. With Pedro Avila’s return and a wave of non-roster relievers, is Cleveland simply stockpiling depth or eyeing bigger trade possibilities?   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free au

Cleveland Guardians stand idle in free agency. Will waiting too long leave the lineup exposed heading into the 2024 season? Jeff Ellis breaks down the Guardians’ cautious approach, spotlighting missed opportunities like Rob Refsnyder and exploring potential pivot targets including Austin Hays, Romy Gonzalez, and Alec Bohm. The conversation dives into Cleveland’s evolving bench, questions surrounding David Fry, and the need for right-handed bats to balance the lineup. Advanced MLB data sharing changes and potential conflicts of interest in league technology contracts also come under scrutiny. Plus, a deep look at rising ace Gavin Williams reveals why his stellar second half may not be fully sustainable, highlighting the role of elite infield defense and evolving pitch mix. Can Williams anchor the rotation as Cleveland awaits its next big move? Stay tuned for all the latest on prospects, trades, and the Guardians’ hunt for offensive firepower.  Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it

Cleveland Guardians frustrate fans with offseason inaction as another outfield target, Rob Refsnyder, signs elsewhere. Will the front office finally bolster the offense, or are fans in for another season of waiting? Justin Lada breaks down the missed Refsnyder opportunity, analyzing why he fit Cleveland’s needs and questioning whether Austin Hays or Brendan Donovan can fill the gap. We discuss the front office’s philosophy on player development, concerns about blocking prospects, and the limited options remaining on the outfield market. The episode also examines the Guardians’ continued focus on pitching depth, with insight into the Cody Heuer signing and a rundown of bullpen additions. Justin Lada explores how a new minor league hitting coach, Mike Snow, could help shift the team’s developmental approach, spotlighting his innovative philosophy on pitch selection and individualization. Can the Guardians address offensive woes, or will another quiet offseason haunt their playoff hopesEverydayer Club  If you ne

Cleveland Guardians telegraph their search for a right-handed outfielder as Lane Thomas opts for Kansas City, raising questions about Cleveland’s next move. Are the Guardians prioritizing lineup flexibility over everyday starters? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis discuss the implications of recent transactions, including Stuart Fairchild’s minor league signing and the calculated DFA of Justin Bruihl after acquiring him for Jhonkensy Noel. Will targets like Rob Refsnyder or a “unicorn” everyday bat finally strengthen Cleveland’s injury-tested outfield?The show debates Lane Thomas’s deal, comparisons between Chase DeLauter and George Valera, and roster management strategy in pursuit of depth and reliability. We also get into White Sox’s bold gamble with Munataka Murakami and the Red Sox acquisition of Wilson Contreras and why the Guardians weren't in on either.    Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our membe

Cleveland Guardians bolster their bullpen, signing veteran reliever and former draft pick Shawn Armstrong in a move that promises stability and maybe some closing opportunities for the 2026 season. Can Armstrong’s evolving pitch mix and late-career resurgence bolster the Guardians’ playoff hopes while keeping Cade Smith's in a more versatile bullpen role?Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Armstrong’s strengths, his role in the bullpen, and what this means for Cleveland’s roster construction and potential trade strategy. The show also discusses the tough decision of who loses a 40-man spot, and why the stagnant free agent bat market is impacting the Guardians’ next move. The guys also re-examine Cleveland’s mixed history drafting high school pitchers and track the latest roster news alongside trade rumors for hitters and relievers. Are more moves coming, or will Guardians fans need to stay patient this off-season?   Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locke

Cleveland Guardians continue to stockpile under-the-radar relievers. Will those moves add up to a big payoff somehow? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the addition of Justin Bruihl and dissect the Guardians’ clear pitcher profile. Can Cleveland's analytical approach to pitching depth help built enough  AL rivals despite a stingy free agent market?The hosts also weigh in on the DFA of power prospect Jhonkensy Noel and explore if the Guardians have finally learned what hitting profiles don’t work at the MLB level. Trade targets, free agent options like Rob Refsnyder and Romy Gonzalez, and the need for real offensive upgrades headline a spirited “Trade Talk Thursday.” Join Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis as they assess Stephen Vogt’s bullpen strategies, potential breakout arms, and the path Cleveland must take to spark its lineup and stay relevant in the ever-evolving AL Central.   Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free aud

Cleveland Guardians fans take the GM seat as the team’s quiet offseason has us antsy to improve the team. Justin Lada outlines why Brendan Donovan tops his wish list, crafts a deal involving Logan Allen, and weighs the merits of other trade targets like Ketel Marte and JoJo Romero. Can creative moves jumpstart the Guardians’ lineup and fortify the bullpen with names like Hunter Harvey, Luke Weaver, and Rob Refsnyder?With payroll constraints looming, will the Guardians’ front office finally make the impactful additions fans crave? Justin breaks down the latest MLB news and rumors around Adolis Garcia and Nick Castellanos, analytic comparisons, and realistic strategies to keep Cleveland competitive in the AL Central. Play GM with Justin and see if your plan beats the proposals for a more exciting Guardians season.Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our

Cleveland Guardians are facing an inflection point of the offseason with no new bats and minimal roster moves. Will their 2026 hopes hinge on prospects Chase DeLauter and Travis Bazzana and does that mean they NEED to be on the Opening Day Roster? The front office’s commitment to youth leaves us to wonder if deliberate service time manipulation is right for Bazzana while DeLauter’s injury history complicates his role on the Opening Day roster.Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis analyze the stagnant free agent market, weigh the value of trade aggressiveness, and dissect Cleveland’s penchant for secrecy, including the under-the-radar extension of manager Stephen Vogt. Is the Guardians’ strategy smart, or does their reluctance to take risks on the trade front and in player acquisitions jeopardize their path back to World Series contention?    Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more

The Cleveland Guardians cautious free agency strategy and ability to pivot elsewhere holds them back. Colin Holderman, Connor Brogdon, and Peyton Palette are good bullpen depth additions that they needed, yet they still lack high-leverage help and potential outfield upgrades. Should the Guardians pursue Robert Refsnyder or push for bigger trades with names like Brendan Donovan and Ketel Marte on the radar? Is their consistently rational bidding causing them to finish third on every major free agent?Justin Lada breaks down the team’s blueprint, emphasizing the need for stronger mid-tier signings and timely roster turnover akin to the Tampa Bay Rays’ model. The episode also highlights Cleveland’s strategy for the new ABS challenge system, explaining why catchers like Austin Hedges and Bo Naylor—not pitchers—will lead ball-strike reviews, while hitters such as Steven Kwan and José Ramírez are set to have the green light. Will these tweaks give the Guardians an edge in the AL CentralEverydayer Club  If you never

Cleveland Guardians gamble on former White Sox top prospect Peyton Pallette in the Rule 5 Draft. Will he stick in their bullpen in 2026 and what is his potential impact? The free agent market is heating up while Cleveland waits to jump in. Is waiting too long to add a bat or make a big trade a risky strategy? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Pallette’s potential impact, discuss why the White Sox left him unprotected, and explore the Guardians’ Rule 5 strategy. We also debate where Pallette lands in the Guardians prospect rankings. The show tackles outfield trade rumors, free agent fits like Rob Refsnyder and Austin Hays, and speculate on the next moves as more names exit the board. Will the Guardians strike before it’s too late? Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: htt

Cleveland Guardians set their sights on major bullpen upgrades as free agent relievers fly off the board. Chris Antonetti finally mentioned a clear need for help. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians hunt for high-stuff, high-extension arms. Can Cleveland land a key piece before options run dry?Antonetti also spoke some about position player plans, emphasizing runway for Steven Kwan, Chase DeLauter, and the next wave while refusing to block prospects  without proven upside. The episode spotlights top Rule 5 Draft targets—Peyton Pallette, RJ Pettit, Jose Rodriguez—and weighs the risks of losing Dylan DeLucia or Ryan Webb. With four top-100 picks and a double-digit bonus pool, we discuss 2026 MLB Draft targets for the Guardians.     Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s co

Locked On Guardians' Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down what the Cleveland Guardians did and didn't say from from Day One of MLB’s Winter Meetings, focusing on the team’s cryptic communication style and what management isn’t saying. We dig into Stephen Vogt’s early comments, Bo Naylor’s shot at a breakout year, and the reality that impact right-handed outfielders are almost as rare as Bigfoot.    Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are he