Locked On Indians

Cleveland Guardians declined John Means’ $6 million option. What questions does that raise about his ability, their pitching depth and roster strategy for 2026? Will management target other outside depth arms in a thin free agent market? These decisions would impact Guardians’ upcoming Rule 5 and non-tender decisions loom large as starting pitching depth options are thin.Justin Lada explores the ripple effects of these roster moves, debates the offensive struggles tied to player development versus coaching, and breaks down rumors around potential trades and international signings. Will the Guardians aggressively pursue new bats, or double down on developing homegrown talent? We also debate Victor Rodriguez’s hiring by the Astros and take deeper look into Cleveland’s ongoing offensive challenges and the true cause.Recent hires, coaches, and the ongoing debate: coaching vs. talent problem.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksDownload the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lin

Cleveland Guardians center field has become baseball's biggest black hole. The franchise that once featured greats like Kenny Lofton and Larry Doby now ranks dead last offensively at the position, with three of their worst center field seasons in franchise history occurring in the last five years alone. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down why Lane Thomas, Angel Martinez, and Nolan Jones all failed in 2025, leaving the Guardians with zero answers heading into 2026. The show discusses internal prospects like Chase DeLauter and Travis Bazzana, who could shift from second base to the outfield. We explore trade talk Thursday -  including Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox, Jacob Young from the Washington Nationals, and J.J. Bleday from the Athletics.The guys explain why center field has become baseball's scarcest position, with only 15 players reaching average starter status in 2025. Cleveland finished 27th defensively and worst offensively at center field, creating a complete disaster on both sides of t

Cleveland Guardians face a familiar problem heading into 2026: their outfield remains a glaring weakness after a decade of failed acquisitions. With Kyle Tucker commanding $400 million and the free agent market offering little beyond bargain-bin options, the path to improvement looks murky.Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' limited choices in a historically weak outfield class. The show covers potential targets like Trent Grisham, whose 34-home run breakout raises sustainability questions, Miguel Andújar's inconsistent track record, and Ryan O'Hearn's concerning underlying metrics despite strong surface numbers. The guys analyze why power has become baseball's scarcest commodity, with only 13 outfielders hitting 30-plus home runs in 2025, and debate whether Cleveland should pursue risky free agents, explore trades, or trust internal development.Let's discuss which approach offers the Guardians their best chance at finally solving their decade-long outfield crisis. 0:00 Intro - Guardians outf

MLB's offseason is here and the Cleveland Guardians have pivotal roster decisions this week that will impact their 2026 season. Should they gamble $6 million on John Means despite his troubling return from Tommy John surgery?Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' critical off-season timeline, including the Means option deadline, Rule 5 draft protections, and non-tender decisions. The discussion examines manager Stephen Vogt's expected contract extension and how his $4 million salary compares to MLB's highest-paid skippers like Dave Roberts and Craig Counsell. The show analyzes Steven Kwan's fourth consecutive Gold Glove and its arbitration impact, then provide extensive statistical analysis of Kenny Lofton's controversial exclusion from the Baseball Hall of Fame contemporary ballot. Using Baseball Reference WAR comparisons, they debate whether Lofton's 68.4 career WAR merits enshrinement alongside contemporaries like Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens in an era dominated by power hitters. 0:00 Intro2

Cleveland Guardians fans face a harsh reality: the Los Angeles Dodgers just won the World Series with a $394 million payroll while committing $228 million for 2028—more than most teams' entire rosters. Can small-market teams compete in baseball's broken economic system?Jeff Ellis breaks down the Dodgers' championship run and what it reveals about MLB's payroll disparity crisis. The discussion covers why baseball desperately needs a salary cap and floor, analyzes the minimum offensive production Cleveland requires to contend for a title, and examines one of the darkest periods in Cleveland baseball history. From the infamous Rocky Colavito trade to the even worse Norm Cash deal, Ellis reveals how the 1959-1960 era saw Cleveland ship away multiple Hall of Fame-caliber players including Tommy John, Dennis Eckersley, and Minnie Miñoso in catastrophic transactions that shaped decades of franchise struggles.Discover why the Colavito trade wasn't even the worst deal that week and what Cleveland must do offensively t

Could calling pitches from the dugout be the answer to the Cleveland Guardians offensive issues at catcher? The Miami Marlins tested this NFL-style system in 2025, where pitch sequences are called from the dugout rather than by catchers. Justin Lada breaks down how Cleveland could implement this innovation to maintain their elite pitching development (3rd in defensive catching metrics) while addressing their 25th-ranked catcher offense. The show covers Daniel Espino's impressive Arizona Fall League comeback, Trenton Denholm's knuckleball experiments with former Cleveland pitcher Tom Candiotti, as well as a interesting change by Jhonkensy Noel. Plus, our Halloween special ranks the franchise's worst trades, from the Myles Straw disaster to the legendary Rocky Colavito curse.Discover how the Cleveland Guardians could transform their catching strategy while keeping their pitching dominance intact.0:00 Intro - Pitching Innovation and Catcher Offense5:07 Game Calling Issues and First Pitch Problems15:17 Pitch Cloc

Could All-Star Jarren Duran be available this off-season and are the Cleveland Guardians a potential fit? Is Durran's availability be the answer in Cleveland's outfield, or is the price too steep? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down why Boston might move Duran despite his 6.8 WAR season, analyzing his splits against left-handed pitching and defensive concerns. The discussion examines what it would cost Cleveland to acquire him—potentially Gavin Williams or other proven pitching—and whether that price makes sense given Duran's three years of control. The show also spotlights an under-the-radar alternative: Romy Gonzalez, whose elite hard-hit metrics rank fourth in baseball behind only Schwarber, Ohtani, and Judge. We also dive into Boston's roster construction priorities, Cleveland's historical approach to acquisitions, and identifying market inefficiencies in players from struggling organizations.Discover which trade target makes more sense for the Guardians' championship window and why underlying metrics m

6 Cleveland Guardians prospects made their MLB debut in 2025. But which rising stars in the system should the front office consider trading while their value peaks?Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the minor league system's biggest risers and fallers in 2025. Ralphy Velazquez's explosive second half (.330/.408/.591 from July 1st) sees him generating pre-trade Clint Frazier-level excitement, while Alfonsin Rosario jumped from 27th to 12th in prospect rankings. The show also dives into potential trade scenarios involving first base depth—Kyle Manzardo, CJ Kayfus, and Velazquez all competing for limited roster spots. We also debate whether Rosario's strikeout concerns make him an ideal trade chip, why Daniel Espino represents the ultimate sell-high candidate despite his injury history, and which prospects like Welbyn Francisca and Franco Aleman saw their stock tumble.Watch and listen for which Cleveland Guardians prospects could headline trades for controllable major league talent. 0:00 Intro - Prospects we

Could the Cleveland Guardians see more coaches leave with Craig Albernaz becoming the Baltimore Orioles Manager? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis analyze potential replacements and the ripple effects on the team's strategy. The show dissects Jim Bowden's top 50 free agent list, eyeing outfield hitters like Trent Grisham and Mike Yastrzemski as possible fits for the Guardians. They explore how recent  changes might influence Cleveland's approach to the free agent market, debating contract predictions and player values. Could a potential MLB lockout create unexpected opportunities for the Guardians in free agency? 0:00 Intro: World Series ending soon, free agency discussion5:07 Coaching changes and potential departures10:24 Jim Bowden's top 50 free agent list analysis15:53 Shane Bieber and Josh Naylor free agency fits20:17 Cedric Mullins as potential Guardians target25:00 Mike Yastrzemski and relief pitcher options29:39 Devin Williams and undervalued relief arms Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicksDownlo

Cleveland Guardians shake up coaching staff. Will these changes propel them to new heights in the upcoming MLB season? Host Jeff Ellis analyzes the Guardians' recent coaching departures, including Craig Albernaz to the Baltimore Orioles and Jason Esposito to Vanderbilt. He examines the team's defensive performance, highlighting Steven Kwan's Fielding Bible Award and potential improvements in center and right field. Ellis also takes a deep dive into Cleveland's historic 1993 MLB Draft, discussing key picks like Daron Kirkreit and Richie Sexson. Discover how small-market teams like the Guardians can compete in today's MLB landscape and why retaining pitching coach Carl Willis could be crucial for Cleveland's success. Tune in for insider insights on the Guardians' strategy to overcome challenges and build a competitive roster for the future. 0:00 Cleveland Guardians losing third coach 5:08 Carl Willis staying as pitching coach 15:23 Fielding Bible Awards and defensive metrics 25:29 1993 draft: Cleveland's longes

World Series Showdown: Dodgers vs. Blue Jays - Who Will Reign Supreme? The Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays face off in an unexpected World Series matchup. Can the Blue Jays' complete team challenge the Dodgers' powerhouse lineup? Key discussions include team strengths, payroll disparities, and the impact of high-spending franchises on MLB. The hosts analyze starting pitching, bullpen strategies, and offer bold predictions for the series outcome. Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. take center stage as potential game-changers. Tune in for expert insights on this thrilling World Series clash and the broader issues shaping the future of baseball.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksDownload the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.PrizePicks — Run Your Game.Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLBRugietReady to level up your confidence ? Head to https://rugiet.com and use promo

STAR OUTFIELDER ON THE BLOCK?Could Mike Trout be placed on the trade block? Could the Cleveland Guardians join the fray to acquire the star outfielder? Justin Lada explores the possibility of a blockbuster trade that would make sense for both the Guardians and Angels. We look at possible evidence of a trade, more reasons supporting an external outfield upgrade. The show breaks down potential trade packages, weighing prospects like Ralphy Velasquez and current MLB pitchers against Trout's remaining contract. Plus, we discuss the latest on the investigation involving Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, with implications for the team's future plans.0:00 Intro: Cleveland Guardians outfield needs help5:05 Mike Trout trade possibility to Guardians10:14 Reasons Guardians should target Mike Trout15:22 Evidence for external outfield upgrades20:00 Potential trade package for Mike Trout25:36 Investigation update on Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz30:41 Impact on Guardians' roster and planningSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsor

The Cleveland Guardians hired a pitching analyst that data on reliever over-usage, but continued to over-use its bullpen. How can the team adapt its approach for future success?Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect the Guardians' over-reliance on certain relievers, exploring data on batter-pitcher familiarity and its impact on playoff performance. The show analyzes potential improvements to Cleveland's bullpen management, including deeper starts and diversifying reliever usage. We also dive into Trade Talk Thursday to consider targets like Jacob Melton, Brendan Donovan, and the intriguing possibility of acquiring Ketel Marte from the Diamondbacks.Join the discussion with insights on how the Guardians can optimize their pitching strategy and bolster their roster for a deeper postseason run in 2026.   0:00 Intro: Guardians' bullpen over-reliance in postseason5:30 Data shows hitters improve vs relievers in playoffs15:35 How Guardians can improve bullpen usage in 202622:29 Jeff's trade target: Astros' Jacob Melton25

GUARDIANS STOCK WATCH: Who's Rising, Who's Falling?Which Cleveland Guardians prospects stocks should we buy, sell or hold and should we buy that the Guardians will make 'significant' outfield addition?Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis analyze the Cleveland Guardians' farm system, debating which prospects are 2026 impact, including Daniel Espino. The show talks about if the time is right to sell on Slade Cecconi's success and buying the continued rise of Kyle Manzardo. We also explore the odds of potential offseason moves, including a bold prediction for a significant acquisition to boost the outfield. Should the Guardians hold on Bo Naylor and David Fry's rebound?  Travis Bazzana's future sparks a hot take. Will the Guardians make a splash this offseason?   0:00 Intro: Buy, sell, hold edition of Locked on Guardians5:00 Buying Tanner Bibee and Kyle Manzardo stocks10:22 Buying Guardians will make significant outfield move15:42 Buying Travis Bazzana and Cooper Ingle stocks20:32 Holding on Guardians starting pitching st

With several ex-Cleveland Guardians on the Toronto Blue Jays headed to the World Series, do the Guardians struggle more with identifying hitting talent or developing it? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect the Guardians' talent identification process and what is working for other teams and what isn't for the Guardians. We also discuss why internal improvement will be more improtant than free agency, with Ellis boldly claiming "Free agency is a sucker's bet." The show wraps up with the intriguing signing of 6'6" right-hander Luke House from Ouachita Baptist University. 0:00 Intro: Blue Jays' postseason run and ex-Guardians5:00 Debate on talent identification vs development15:09 Analyzing Guardians' player development approach25:21 Free agency challenges for small market teams30:30 Guardians sign undrafted pitcher Luke House Charity Rally Dino T-Shirthttps://www.jni1.com/shop/modern-merch/VFJE2TR4R2LNVYFF7J2FW5TU Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicksDownload the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCK

GUARDIANS TRADE TARGETS: Castellanos, Winn, and Goodman in Focus Could Nick Castellanos be Cleveland-bound? Jeff Ellis analyzes potential trade targets for the Cleveland Guardians, dissecting Castellanos' declining stats and high contract. The host explores Masyn Winn's defensive prowess, Jimmy Herget's unique pitching style, and Hunter Goodman's offensive potential. Ellis also breaks down the right-handed outfield free agent market, evaluating options like Rob Refsnyder and former Guardian Ahmed Rosario. Will the Guardians make a splash in trades, or opt for familiar faces in free agency? Tune in for expert analysis on how these moves could reshape Cleveland's roster and impact their 2024 season prospects.  0:00 Nick Castellanos trade rumors 5:08 Castellanos' fit for Cleveland 15:20 Masyn Winn as potential trade target 25:35 Hunter Goodman as catching trade target 30:38 Right-handed outfield free agent options  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksDownload the PrizePicks app today and use code LOC

Cleveland Guardians' pitching prowess holds the key to 2026 success. Can they emulate playoff powerhouses and return to the ALCS?Justin Lada analyzes the Guardians' starting rotation, comparing their strategy to successful teams like the Dodgers and Mariners. This episode discusses why the Guardians must lean on Tanner Bibee and Gavin Williams and their young arms to propel Cleveland forward. The discussion covers balancing pitching focus with offensive improvements, critiquing over-management, and the importance of trusting starters to go deeper into games.Charity Rally Dino T-Shirthttps://www.jni1.com/shop/modern-merch/VFJE2TR4R2LNVYFF7J2FW5TUSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!RugietReady to level up your confidence ? Head to https://rugiet.com and use promo code LOCKEDONMLB for 15% off your first order.Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONMLB at https://monarchmoney.com/lockedonmlb for 50% off your first year.GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account

GUARDIANS GAMBLING PROBE: What's Next for Cleveland's Pitchers?Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz are now allowed to play in the Dominican Winter League. Does that tip MLB's hand about the results of the Gambling probe? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis discuss that and why that makes bullpen a critical need in the offseason. The show also explores trade scenarios including a potential deal with the Philadelphia Phillies for Alec Bohm and Orion Kerkering. We also discuss Kai Correa being hired away by the New York Mets, as well as Hedges' return to Cleveland and why he fits better as a player than coach right now. 0:00 Gambling investigation update5:26 No major announcements during MLB playoffs15:03 Bullpen needs to be offseason priority25:07 Potential trade targets for Guardians30:59 Importance of veteran catcher presence Charity Rally Dino T-Shirthttps://www.jni1.com/shop/modern-merch/VFJE2TR4R2LNVYFF7J2FW5TU Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!RugietReady to level up your confidence ? Head to https://rugiet.com and

GUARDIANS' KWAN CONUNDRUM: TRADE, EXTEND, OR HOLD?Steven Kwan's inconsistent 2025 leads to questions about his future. The Guardians need him, but what version and for how long? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect Kwan's inconsistent performance, defensive prowess, and potential trade value. The show explore the Guardians' outfield depth, analyzing prospects like Chase DeLauter and George Valera as possible replacements.We focus in on Kwan's struggles against left-handed pitching, his importance to the team's defense, and the lack of MLB-ready alternatives in the farm system. The show also looks topotential extension scenarios and how the development of minor league talent could impact Kwan's role beyond 2026. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of the Guardians' outfield situation and the crucial decisions facing the front office regarding Stephen Kwan's future in Cleveland. 0:00 Steven Kwan's future with Guardians5:02 Kwan's performance and consistency issues15:31 Kwan's trade value and irreplaceability20:38 No

Live reaction to the Cleveland Guardians re-signing catcher Austin Hedges for the 2026 season. 0:00 Intro: Austin Hedges re-signs with Guardians5:23 Financial impact of Hedges signing on payroll10:31 Why Hedges is back and roster implications15:33 Hedges provides versatility and roster flexibility20:12 $4 million for backup catcher reasonable price Charity Rally Dino T-Shirthttps://www.jni1.com/shop/modern-merch/VFJE2TR4R2LNVYFF7J2FW5TU Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!RugietReady to level up your confidence ? Head to https://rugiet.com and use promo code LOCKEDONMLB for 15% off your first order.   Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONMLB at https://monarchmoney.com/lockedonmlb for 50% off your first year. 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. Football season is around the