We still have a long way to go before Opening Day 2024 and the Cleveland Guardians still have a lot of decisions to make. It's never too early to start thinking about what the first lineup of the year will be.
As of Fall 2023, this arrangement feels like the most likely outcome.
Jose Ramirez - 3B
Let's start with an easy one.
Jose Ramirez is going to be the starting third baseman for the Guardians on Opening Day in 2024. He's been an everyday player for Cleveland for over half a decade and is under contract with a no-trade clause through the 2028 season.
Jose is going to be starting.
Andrez Gimenez - 2B
Andres Gimenez is another Guardian who is under contract for the foreseeable future and will likely be in the starting lineup next season at second base. Gimenez has already one one Golden Glove there and should be winning a second one soon.
There is a scenario where Gimenez moves over to shortstop depending on who the organization wants to pair with him in the middle infield. But right now, it looks like it'll be at second base.
Gabriel Arias - SS
No real hot takes with this one.
The Guardians gave Gabriel Arias the keys to second base following the trade of Amed Rosario in the middle of July. Arias is an incredible defender and watching him and Gimenez turn double plays was a thing of beauty.
However, the only thing holding him back is the inconsistent offense and hitting against left-handed pitching. Unless a player such as Brayan Rocchio or Tyler Freeman really impresses during Spring Training, the job feels like it belongs to Arias to start the season.
Kyle Manzardo - 1B
The Guardians acquired Kyle Manzardo from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for Aaron Civale in a trade deadline swap. Manzardo is regarded as a fantastic hitter and is currently lighting it up the Arizona Fall League.
Manzardo has yet to make his Big League debut and the first game of 2024 is a perfect time for that to happen. He's likely to play a major role in Cleveland's future and it would be great to see Manzardo hit the ground running.
In this plan, Josh Naylor would be the starting designated hitter who splits time at first base with Manzardo creating a dangerous power-hitting duo.
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