Locked On Indians

Cleveland Guardians’ center field woes reach a breaking point—could Steven Kwan be the surprising solution the team has needed since the Grady Sizemore era? Jeff Ellis explores the risks and upside of shifting the Gold Glove left fielder to the center, weighing how Kwan’s durability, declining second-half offensive numbers, and potential trade value could reshape the team’s 2024 outlook. From Nolan Jones’ tantalizing tools to the organization’s struggle to develop or acquire average center fielders, Jeff Ellis breaks down roster decisions, prospect dilemmas, and why outfield has become Cleveland’s recurring Achilles’ heel. The episode also investigates the mounting challenges facing small-market teams like the Guardians amid shrinking TV revenue, widening MLB parity gaps, and why keeping stars like Francisco Lindor has become a fading hope.     00:00 Guardians Center Field Struggles 04:05 Stephen Kwan Center Proposal 08:17 Kwan’s Durability Concerns 09:53 Lack of Prospect Depth 13:02 Roster Margins Explained

Cleveland Guardians fans voice frustration as GM Mike Chernoff addresses free agency realities and payroll limitations, and finding the nuance and middle ground on the Guardians disappointing offseason. Justin Lada examines why the so-called parity in MLB is misleading and dissects the impact of baseball’s financial landscape on roster building. We also tell you why Travis Bazzana is poised for a big season, with the World Baseball Classic as his springboard.  00:00 Actions Speak Louder Than Words04:34 Guardians' Payroll and Free Agency06:45 Nolan Jones Chosen Over Alternatives14:48 Guardians' TV Deal Mistake18:19 NFL Stability vs. MLB Free Agency26:08 Travis Bazzana's Bat Speed Focus29:18 Why Bazzana Will Have a Big YearEverydayer 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://lockedonpodc

Can Bo Naylor finally have a breakout season for the Cleveland Guardians we have been waiting for, or will his streaky offense and defensive lapses force a shift in the lineup? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis debate Naylor's potential, analyze his September surges, and compare his skillset to other MLB catchers like Cal Raleigh and Adley Rutschman. The show dives into his framing metrics, game-calling, and whether the Guardians’ emphasis on defensive over offense hurts their lineup. We also debate David Fry and Austin Hedges' roles behind the plate and whether prospects like Cooper Ingle and Jacob Cozart offer a brighter future for Cleveland.   00:00 Spring Training, Catcher Convos, Updates06:29 Streaky Catcher Performance Discussion07:50 Bo Naylor: Glove Over Bat13:36 Naylor's Crucial Season16:24 David Fry's Catching Role Importance19:15 Maximizing Defense at Catcher27:29 Cooper Ingle Prospect Decline30:52 Power and Arms Define Catchers32:36 Cozart's Struggles and Red Flags Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an epi

The Cleveland Guardians bullpen has dominated the last two years. Cade Smith is now the centerpiece after Emmanuel Clase's gambling connection allegations. But Smith's contract future and the bullpen’s ability to maintain its dominance without a Hall of Fame-caliber anchor are new questions for the unit. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis examine whether Smith—statistically one of MLB’s top relievers—should sign an extension or bet on a massive payday in free agency, and debate how CBA uncertainty could shape the Guardians’ strategy. The show breaks down the new-look bullpen’s strengths and concerns, highlight Shawn Armstrong’s addition, Hunter Gaddis’ heavy workload, and potential impact arms like Daniel Espino, and Peyton Pallette. Plus, spring training quotes from manager Stephen Vogt hints at optimistic roles for Juan Brito and David Fry, as the Guardians search for right-handed lineup balance. Can Cleveland’s bullpen depth hold up? Which new faces are set to rise? Get the latest on the Guardians’ roster moves as

Cleveland Guardians and surprisingly other teams like the Houston Astros and Baltimore Orioles face lingering roster questions as MLB spring training kicks off. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis spotlight potential fits like Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker, debating whether the Guardians should make a move for right-handed power despite tricky demands from trade partners like the Astros and Orioles. Is Ryan Mountcastle or Coby Mayo a real upgrade, and what would it cost Cleveland in prospects or payroll?The show also debates who deserves to start Opening Day on the mound—Tanner Bibee or Gavin Williams. And get some hot takes from the college baseball season opener surface, with standout performances and early 2026 MLB Draft prospects stealing attention.   00:00 Baseball's Offseason Issues Persist04:24 MLB Offseason: Depth & Pace08:56 Walker’s Trade Challenges Explained16:13 Orioles' Trades and Player Moves17:02 Mayo Doesn’t Fit the Roster23:43 Cleveland Pitchers' Weekend Plans31:09 Standout Performances: Powe

Ben Lively chooses the Cleveland Guardians —how could his return reshape the pitching staff this season, and what untapped value does he bring? Jeff Ellis dissects Lively’s strengths, righty/lefty splits, and potential impact as starter or bullpen depth, all while questioning the future ceiling of Guardians’ arms beyond Cleveland’s elite coaching staff. From the ongoing Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz betting scandal to revealing Nick Castellanos’ unfiltered clubhouse antics, no topic is off limits. Jeff breaks down the league’s latest rule changes, scrutinizes the Guardians’ strategy in maximizing pitcher value, and questions if rival teams should think twice before acquiring Cleveland pitchers. Will these developments define the Guardians’ 2024 trajectory, or are bigger surprises yet to come?  00:00 Ben Lively Returns04:49 Lively’s Pitching Profile09:16 Guardians Bullpen Depth12:07 Starter Trade Conspiracy16:08 Pitchers’ Post-Cleveland Struggles22:30 Clase & Ortiz Scandal27:57 Castellanos Team Concerns30:

The Cleveland Guardians will rely heavily on a starting rotation that led them to a division title in 2025. Was their September surge a sign of more dominance in 2026, or will they regress? Player development and pitching analyst Lance Brozdowsi joins Justin Lada to break down the evolution of Gavin Williams, Tanner Bibee , and Joey Cantillo, exploring how adjustments in pitch mixes, sequencing, and player development could determine the Guardians’ pitching success. We dive into analysis of fastball variations, the emergence of Khal Steven and Parker Messick as rotation dark horses, and the organizational approach that keeps Cleveland on the cutting edge of MLB pitching. Insights on prospect floor versus upside, command versus stuff, and the secret sauce behind Guardians pitching success make Lance's interview a must-listen for diehard baseball fans and prospect watchers alike. 00:00 Baseball Insights: Gavin Williams Analysis04:27 Pitching Style Evolution Analysis09:16 Pitch Movement Evolution Insights10:35 P

Cleveland Guardians gear up for Spring Training, but real college baseball games are being played this week. We're diving into 2026 MLB Draft names to know from the college ranks. Will the Guardians target a college hitter with a deep class? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis weigh the strengths of college bats and break down the latest scouting director grades from Baseball America, offering a fresh take on Cleveland's evolving draft risk tolerance. Key names to watch include Brady Ballinger, Caden Sorrell, and intriguing pitchers like Ethan Norby and Jason DeCaro. The show also covers major news from camp, including division rivals like the Detroit Tigers reuniting with Justin Verlander and trading Shane Bieber at the right time.   00:00 2026 Draft Preview & Updates09:34 Sophomore-Year Talent Focus12:56 College Sports and Player Development15:22 Elite Hitting Metrics Trio18:29 Missouri State Power Hitter Watch25:08 Ethan Norby: Unique Pitching Prospect29:43 Connor Fennell: Unique Pitching Prospect31:32 Injuries

Can the Cleveland Guardians overcome a quiet offseason to defend their AL Central crown? Despite returning most of the 2025 team, there are big threats looming from the Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals, the Guardians don't deserve to be favorites for another division title.  Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians’ current standing, debating whether Detroit's addition of Framber Valdez and eventually top prospect Kevin McGonigle tilts the division heavily, and if Kansas City’s lineup featuring Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino is actually superior to Cleveland's. They analyze rotation depth, bullpen stability, and the crucial need for internal breakouts from prospects like Chase DeLauter. The show also touches on how the Twins and White Sox factor into the playoff picture and questions if the Guardians’ coaching advantage and organizational depth can turn projections on their head. Can Cleveland surprise the AL Central once again? 00:00 Guardians' 2026 Division Outlook05:55 Cleveland's Mi

Will the Cleveland Guardians pitching staff set the tone for 2026? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Gavin Williams' ace potential, Tanner Bibee's quest for a bounce-back season, and Joey Cantillo's electric stuff in a stacked rotation. Logan Allen gears up for the World Baseball Classic with Team Panama and Parker Messick pushes for a bigger MLB role, the show discusses the strengths, risks, and of the rotation as well as the impact of pitch sequencing, FIP, and evolving pitch mixes. We also get into if the Guardians have enough pitching depth to give them in-season trade flexibility, and how prospects like Khal Stephen and top minor leaguers could step in. We also discuss rumors about a former Guardians pitching possibly getting a rehab deal with Guardians. Can the rotation shoulder the burden for another division title in 2026? 00:00 Guardians' Season Hinges on Pitching05:50 Gavin Williams: September Success Analysis07:30 Pitcher Evaluation and Potential Growth12:59 Tough 2025 Season for Tanner Bibee15

Cleveland Guardians hunt for a right-handed bat heats up as rumors swirl around Ty France, Paul Goldschmidt, and Jorge Soler. Could Randall Grichuk or Rhys Hoskins transform the Guardians’ lineup, or is a high-risk, high-reward play for injury-prone Tyler O’Neill in the cards? Jeff Ellis examines trade targets, free agent fits, and how recent Statcast trends spotlight the profiles Cleveland covets. Key questions emerge around defense versus offense, with Jeff Ellis unpacking the impact of Gabriel Arias, Brayan Rocchio, and Daniel Schneemann on the infield’s future—and how ground-ball heavy pitching shapes those choices. Is Cleveland willing to sacrifice elite defense for more pop, or will the Guardians double down on gloves up the middle? Plus, a look at potential blockbuster swaps for Masyn Winn or Ivan Herrera and which under-the-radar bats might spark Cleveland’s playoff push.  00:00 Show Intro & Guardians’ RH Bat Need01:27 Ty France Trade Rumor Breakdown03:42 Analyzing France vs. LH Pitching04:43 Free

Cleveland Guardians haven't made any meaningful offensive additions with spring training looming. Where does that leave the roster to start the season and is there a potential last-ditch offensive upgrade that can be made? Is there more urgency needed with the impact of AL Central rivals’ moves, including the Tigers adding Framber Valdez. Can Juan Brito, Kyle Manzardo, and top prospects like Chase DeLauter provide enough help for Jose Ramirez, or can the Guardians make a move for an everyday bat like Isaac Paredes or Christian Walker?Justin Lada breaks down Guardians roster projection 3.0, spotlighting the battles between Gabriel Arias, Daniel Schneemann, and prospects vying for infield and outfield spots. The bullpen is set with Cade Smith as the likely closer, but questions remain about depth and injury risk. The show also includes Stephen Vogt’s lineup strategy.  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in

Cleveland Guardians’ pitching factory gears up for 2026, but which prospects have the nastiest pitches in the system? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis square off in a pitching prospect tool draft, hoping again Daniel Espino’s electric fastball, Khal Steven’s slider, and the next wave of arms poised to make an impact. Is the Guardians’ pitching pipeline stronger than ever? The show revisits last year’s picks, evaluate development gains, and dig into prospect risers like Franklin Gomez and Caden Favors. We've got hot takes on prospect nicknames, sleeper picks for breakout roles, and how Cleveland’s prospect arms stack up for the season ahead. 00:00 Guardians Pitching Prospects Draft05:46 Fastball Potential and Role Debate07:48 Drafting Strategy and Pitch Selection13:44 Pitch Mix and Command16:11 Evaluating Pitches and Pitchers23:18 Tugboat's Struggles with Control27:10 Biggest Butt in Sports Debate31:19 Joey Cantillo's Big Jump Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes

Cleveland Guardians fans voice growing frustration as another coveted bat slips away. Will the front office’s quiet offseason haunt a postseason push? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians’ current roster moves, trade deadline strategies, and off-season grades, and get questions whether Chris Antonetti and Mike Chernoff’s patient approach is still the right formula for sustainable success. We also discuss why it may not make sense to extend Kyle Manzardo, challenges in bringing in right-handed outfield help like Dane Myers, and how prospects such as Josh Hartle and Angel Genao could be part of Cleveland’s future or become trade chips. The show also confronts fan concerns on ownership transitions, missed free agent opportunities, and whether the Guardians’ front office is resting too much on past accomplishments.   05:09 Offseason Graded: C-07:09 Evaluating a Manzardo Contract Extension14:30 Yorman Gomez as an Under the Radar Trade Chip18:01 Arias: Contact and Potential24:30 Unpredictable Trade D

Cleveland Guardians fans wait for a breakout move as the team enters spring training with a quiet offseason and major questions about the roster’s offensive firepower. Can young prospects like Chase DeLauter, George Valera, and Juan Brio inject enough life into the lineup, or will injuries and inexperience hold them back? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis debate the impact of not being able to add bats like Austin Hays, or Eugenio  Suarez. We also get into why why skepticism about top prospect Travis Bazzana doesn’t add up, how the TV contract situation may be shaping payroll decisions, and whether the front office can still find upgrades before Opening Day. 03:06 Guardians' Bullpen Depth  06:19 Roster Decisions and Player Rotation13:55 Guardians' Expectations vs. White Sox Rebuild16:27 White Sox Weaknesses and Frustration20:02 Guardians' Payroll and Roster Strategy25:51 Resilient Player with Strong Stats28:57 Mississippi Prospects and Draft Doubts29:55 Too Early to Judge Bazzana Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsor

Jose Ramirez signed his final extension with the Cleveland Guardians. But the team still has to answer questions about moves to strengthen the lineup around their superstar. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the impact of Ramirez's extension, dissect Chris Antonetti’s statements on the Guardians’ offensive outlook, and challenge the team’s willingness to trust emerging talents like Chase DeLauter and Travis Bazzana. The show examines failed attempts to sign outfield reinforcements, the realities of platooning in the Guardians’ lineup, and whether the prospect pipeline can truly provide improvement.   04:37 Decoding Front Office Speak07:22 Outfielder Focus Limits Opportunities12:41 Platoon Strategy and Player Deals15:51 Trade Talks and Asking Prices22:08 Player Development and Roster Decisions26:07 Player Evaluation and Expectations30:07 Prioritize Now, Not the Future32:16 Blitzer Waiting to Become Majority Owner? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes do

Can the Cleveland Guardians’ young core live up to the hype? Justin Lada spotlights Travis Bazzana, Chase DeLauter, Angel Genao, and Ralphy Velazquez as the club’s top 100 prospects, looking into what Baseball America’s hit rate on prospects means for Cleveland’s future and whether this group can be the core they need. We also get into Chris Antonetti’s offseason philosophy quotes, and the case for and against adding veterans like Harrison Bader, Austin Hays, and Miguel Andújar, as well as the brutal reality behind the Dodgers’ massive TV deal and MLB’s growing financial disparity. Justin Lada breaks down Cleveland's farm system trends, the odds of breakout impact from back-half prospects, and the critical issues facing Guardians’ roster construction.  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get ba

Jose Ramirez cements his legacy with the Cleveland Guardians, signing a fresh extension that proves no one loves Cleveland baseball more than its star third baseman. Can this creative deal help the Guardians add more help around him? And how will the contract age?Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the seven-year, $175 million commitment, dissecting how the contract’s deferred money structure impacts payroll flexibility and what it reveals about incoming owner David Blitzer’s future influence. From Ramirez’s under-market deal to the significance of his leadership in the clubhouse, the show explores the ripple effects on Guardians prospects, lineup construction, and long-term strategy. Will the team bolster the offense around Ramirez, or is his commitment the headline of the offseason? Plus some miss stories from Jose’s prospect days. 05:02 Not Worried About Back End of Jose Ramirez's Deal06:34 Unicorn Players and Longevity14:57 Strategy of Deferred Money16:17 Smart Financial Strategy Explained21:17 Guardian

Cleveland Guardians eye roster upgrades as the hot stove heats up—should they pursue Dodgers’ outfield depth for an offensive spark? Jeff Ellis examines how players like Alex Call and Ryan Ward could fit in, while weighing the trade value of prospects and the team’s coveted competitive balance draft pick. With spring training looming, will the Guardians seize opportunities left in a thinning free agent market or seek answers through savvy trades? Jeff Ellis breaks down the crucial role of infield defense for a groundball-heavy pitching staff, explaining why Gabriel Arias’ stellar arm and range might outweigh offensive shortcomings. Key discussions include the risks of targeting free agents like Harrison Bader or Luis Arraez, potential upside options such as Eugenio Suarez, and how Cleveland’s offseason approach could shape their playoff hopes. Can the Guardians maintain elite run prevention and finally find power at the plate? 2:04 – Dodgers’ Overloaded Roster4:45 – Prospect & Draft Pick Trading Landscape

Cleveland Guardians two time manager of the year award winner Stephen Vogt enters his third season as manager with roster spots up for grabs and the team’s identity in flux. Can the Guardians maintain their playoff streak and overcome more challenges, including Jose Ramirez’s absence for the World Baseball Classic and looming questions about Steven Kwan’s future?Justin Lada breaks down the  challenges of finding a center and right fielder, the uncertainty at second base, and the youth-driven rotation featuring Tanner Bibee, Joey Cantillo, and Gavin Williams. The show highlights dives battles, potential impact of prospects like Chase DeLauter and Juan Brito, and the urgency for an offensive identity. With the AL Central race wide open, will the Guardians’ pitching anchor another postseason run or will questions in the lineup set them back?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t