Keys to victory
Vogt of confidence: The “Tito” era is over in Cleveland, as Terry Francona retired after 11 mostly successful seasons with the franchise. He is replaced by Stephen Vogt, who is getting his first crack at a managing job. Vogt was the bullpen coach with the Mariners last season, one year after retiring as a player. There will be some growing pains with a rookie manager, but Vogt’s even temperament is similar to that of Francona, who was a hit with his players.
offense: The Guardians did almost
Offensive
nothing to improve upon an offense that finished 27th in runs scored and OPS and 29th in slugging percentage. Cleveland still has José Ramirez, and Josh Naylor had a nice season (team-leading 97 RBI), but the plan seems to be letting prospects grow around them rather than going out and getting help. At the center of that plan is catcher Bo Naylor, Josh’s younger brother who made his major league debut last year, as well as top prospects Kyle Manzardo, a first baseman. The Guardians got Manzardo in exchange for
Aaron Civale at last year’s trade deadline. Outfielder Chase DeLauter is also in the plans at some point.
Healthy rotation: A lot is resting on the return of Shane Bieber and Triston McKenzie, who were limited to 25 starts last year (only four by McKenzie) due to injury. The good news is the injuries allowed Logan Allen, Gavin Williams and especially Tanner Bibee to step up. Bibee finished second in AL rookie of the year voting. Williams will start on the IL after injuring his elbow this spring.