The Cleveland Guardians have opened up the 2024 season as pitchers and catchers reported Feb. 12, with their 1st workout on Feb. 15. The rest of the team will report on Feb. 18. The Guardians have a new manager, Stephen Vogt, who replaces Terry Francona. Vogt just recently retired after a career mostly with the Oakland A's.

The Guardians will have the bulk of last year's roster still intact, and the pitching rotation at the outset looks strong. Shane Beiber, Triston McKenzie, Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, and Logan Allen form one of MLB's best rotations, barring any injury setbacks. Last season Beiber and McKenzie were on the shelf with injuries that kept them out for several months. Emmanuel Clase returns at one of the AL's best closers.

Most everyday positions look set, with the exceptions of SS and RF. Gabriel Arias is the favorite to be the opening day SS, while in RF it could be a battle between Ramon Laureano and Will Brennan. Myles Straw looks to be the CF, but management will be looking for more offensive production from him if he is to stay in place.

Jose Ramirez at 3rd, Andres Gimenez at 2nd, Josh Naylor at 1st, Bo Naylor at C, and Steven Kwan in LF are locked in their positions. The Guardians did pick up Scott Barlow for the bullpen. Barlow was the closer for KC last season. Austin Hedges is back to back up Bo Naylor at C. 

The Guardians went 76-86 in 2023, 11 games behind Central Champion Minnesota and 2 games behind 2nd place Detroit. The team must improve offensively to challenge for the Central title, and the pitchers must avoid any long term injuries. There is a lot of experience at many positions to go along with being one of MLB's youngest teams.

Hopefully the Guardians can get back the mojo that made the franchise one of the winningest in the AL over the past decade.