The Cleveland Guardians are beginning one of the biggest offseasons in recent memory. They're deep in the search for a new manager and the front office should also look to restructure parts of the roster along the way.
A lot could happen over the next three to four months and these are some predictions of how it might play out.
Gabriel Arias, Brayan Rocchio, Tyler Freeman All Stay With Organization
What the Guardians will do in the middle infield is one of the biggest questions fans have as the offseason begins. Gabriel Arias, Brayan Rocchio, and Tyler Freeman are the three contenders to be the team's long-term shortstop/second baseman.
Arias received the majority of playing time at short during the second half of the season but Rocchio and Freeman certainly put together a case for why they should still be considered. It's hard to envision Cleveland letting any of them go before Spring Training based on the strengths/weaknesses and ceiling/floor of each candidate.
Shane Bieber Won't Be Moved
One of the most likely contenders to be moved this offseason is starting pitcher Shane Bieber. There were many trade rumors swirling around the former Cy Young winner during the season but that was before he went on the injured list.
Bieber only made two starts after he was sidelined for almost two months. The first start was rough and the second one was much more encouraging. Cleveland could hold out trading Bieber during the offseason and wait for him to make a few starts new year which could boost his value.
Guardians Trade For An Outfielder
Cleveland has a crowded outfield both at the minor and major league levels. The problem is no one (outside of Steven Kwan ) has secured an everyday spot for next season. Addressing this position ground is a must if the Guardians want to return to the playoffs in 2024.
Cleveland has plenty of young prospects and starting pitching they could use to create a trade package for a proven player. Who that player is and what team may be interested in trading with the Guardians is a whole other conversation though.
More must-reads: