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Guardians’ biggest flop to begin 2026 MLB season

Originally posted on MLB on ClutchPoints
By Dan Fappiano, ClutchPoints | Last updated Apr 14, 2026 2:35 PM ET

After making the playoffs the last two years, the Cleveland Guardians aren’t trying to give up their spot at the postseason table. They’ll be relying on their lineup to help carry them through the 162-game gauntlet.

Cleveland has gotten out to a 10-7 start through their first 17 games of the season. However, their offense ranks 20th in the league with 67 runs scored. Furthermore, their .227 batting average is tied for 22nd overall.

The Guardians have seen the rise of former top prospect Chase DeLautier break onto the scene with a team-leading five home runs and 12 RBIs. Furthermore, Cleveland will remain confident in their offense as long as players like Jose Ramirez and Steven Kwan remain in the lineup.

There is one player though who clearly hasn’t lived up to his end of the bargain. First baseman Kyle Manzardo has dealt with continued struggles to begin his 2026 season.

Kyle Manzardo must turn things around

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Playing in 14 games thus far, Manzardo his hitting .116 with one home run and two RBIs. His 16 strikeouts lead the team while his -0.6 WAR is the worst among any Cleveland hitters.

It wasn’t long ago that Manzardo was considered one of the best prospects in baseball. Back in 2024 he ranked second-best in the organization, behind DeLautuer, and No. 59 overall, via MLB Pipeline. Still only 25-years-old, Cleveland still believes in the first baseman’s potential.

They were able to see firsthand what Manzardo can do when given an opportunity. Over 142 games in, he hit .234 with 27 home runs and 70 RBIs. While the batting average was low, Manzardo ranked second on the team in home runs and RBIs behind just Ramirez.

That’s what makes the first baseman the biggest flop in 2026. His potential paints him as a player who should be a significant run producer. When he is in the lineup he is oftentimes hitting between the clean up spot and sixth. The Guardians can’t afford to have a .118 hitter in the middle of what they want to be an impactful lineup.

On the bright side, Manzardo’s first home run of the season did come in his second to last game played. He followed it up with a 1-for-4 performance in his next outing. Still, perhaps the first baseman’s power stroke is starting to come alive.

Cleveland is counting on it. For all the potential that Manzardo holds, the team is expecting results at the major league level. The first baseman must start producing to his 2025 capabilities sooner rather than later.

This article first appeared on MLB on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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