Predicting Guardians 2024 Outfield, Fall Edition

Originally posted on FanNation Cleveland Baseball Insider
By Tommy Wild | Last updated 10/23/23

The position group that needs the most change heading into the offseason is the outfield. The Cleveland Guardians have a number of outfielders on the roster, but where each of them fits into the equation is another conversation.

A lot can change over the course of an offseason, but this is what the Opening Day outfield could look like as of Fall 2023.

Left Field - Will Brennan

Will Brennan's 2023 season was a little underwhelming when looking back at it. However, the advanced stats say that he could've been one of the better outfield hitters so it's worth giving him another chance.

Cleveland also clearly values their defense in the outfield and Brennan is far from a liability if he were to move from right to left field. He ranked in the 80th percentile in both outs above average and arm strength last season, per Baseball Savant.

Center Field - Steven Kwan

Will Brennan playing left field would slide Steven Kwan over to center field. There shouldn't be any worry about whether Kwan can handle center feild. He's a reigning Gold Glove winner in left field and is in line to win over in 2023.

The biggest thing the Guardians gain by placing Kwan in center field is more production on offense. The 26-year-old had a slash line of .268/.340/.370 with 54 RBI during the 2023 season.

An outfield that also produces on offense is a must for Cleveland and that starts with Kwan.

Right Field - A New Name/Face

Yes, it's a little vague.

But at this point of the offseason it it feels like the Guardians will have a new face in the outfield on Opening Day. Whether that be a prospect call-up such as George Valera or a player via a trade, Cleveland needs to shake up this position group if they hope to return to the postseason in 2024.

Is trade for Juan Soto really something the team could pull off?

Bench - Myles Straw, Ramon Laureano

An underrated part of an outfield group who is on the bench and ready to sub in for defense or situational base running.

Myles Straw is still under contract until 2026 (with club option for '27 and '28) so he will still be in the mix next season. He is a great option to bring into the game as a speedster on the base paths or an outsole substitute for defensive purposes.

The Guardians picked up Ramon Laureano off waivers from the Oakland Athletics late in the season. He may not be an everyday player for Cleveland, but he still has tremendous value to the club. The 29-year-old has a career batting average of .269 and .791 OPS against left-handed pitching which is certainly something Cleveland needs more of.

This article first appeared on FanNation Cleveland Baseball Insider and was syndicated with permission.

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