Youtube

Cleveland Guardians Roster 2018

A Look at the Team's Key Players

The Cleveland Guardians are coming off a disappointing 2017 season, but they hope to rebound in 2018 with a new roster of players. The team has made several key acquisitions this offseason, including outfielder Carlos Santana and pitcher Trevor Bauer.

Key Additions

* Carlos Santana: The 31-year-old Santana is a two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner. He is a switch-hitter who can play first base and designated hitter. * Trevor Bauer: The 27-year-old Bauer is a two-time All-Star and Cy Young Award winner. He is a right-handed pitcher who is known for his high strikeout totals.

Other Notable Additions

* Yonder Alonso: The 30-year-old Alonso is a first baseman who has hit 20 or more home runs in each of the past three seasons. * Brad Hand: The 28-year-old Hand is a left-handed pitcher who has been one of the most effective relievers in baseball over the past few years. * Leonys Martin: The 29-year-old Martin is a center fielder who has stolen at least 20 bases in each of the past four seasons.

Key Departures

* Edwin Encarnacion: The 35-year-old Encarnacion is a three-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger. He led the Guardians in home runs in 2017. * Jason Kipnis: The 30-year-old Kipnis is a two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner. He is a second baseman who has been a key part of the Guardians' offense and defense. * Francisco Lindor: The 24-year-old Lindor is a four-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner. He is a shortstop who is considered to be one of the best players in baseball.

Outlook for 2018

The Guardians have a lot of talent on their roster, but they will need to stay healthy and play well together in order to contend for a playoff spot in 2018. The team's pitching staff is a major question mark, but the offense has the potential to be one of the best in baseball.

Here is a look at the Guardians' projected starting lineup for 2018:

* 1B: Carlos Santana * 2B: Jose Ramirez * 3B: Giovanny Urshela * SS: Francisco Lindor * LF: Michael Brantley * CF: Leonys Martin * RF: Yonder Alonso * DH: Edwin Encarnacion * C: Yan Gomes

The Guardians' projected starting rotation for 2018 is as follows:

* 1: Corey Kluber * 2: Trevor Bauer * 3: Mike Clevinger * 4: Carlos Carrasco * 5: Shane Bieber

The Guardians' bullpen is expected to be led by Brad Hand, Cody Allen, and Andrew Miller.

The Guardians have a lot of potential in 2018, but they will need to play well together and stay healthy in order to contend for a playoff spot.

Forbes