Editor’s note: Follow Guardians vs. Tigers live updates and highlights from Game 2 of the AL Wild Card Series.
CLEVELAND — The Guardians have set their Wild Card Series roster.
As No. 3 Cleveland prepares to battle the No. 6-seeded Detroit Tigers in a best-of-3 series, they announced their 26-man roster for the series, which begins today. It includes a former top prospect who could make his major league debut in the playoffs.
Here’s a breakdown of the roster.
Guardians catchers (2): Bo Naylor, Austin Hedges
Dom Nunez was on the taxi squad and eligible for the roster, but the Guardians will carry only two catchers for this series.
Guardians infielders (6): Jose Ramirez, Gabriel Arias, Brayan Rocchio, Kyle Manzardo, C.J. Kayfus, Daniel Schneemann
No surprises here. “Playoff Rocchio” will be in the starting lineup.
Guardians outfielders (7): Steven Kwan, Angel Martinez, Johnathan Rodriguez, George Valera, Petey Halpin, Jhonkensy Noel, Chase DeLauter
This is where it gets interesting, as Chase DeLauter, a former top prospect who again battled injuries throughout 2025, is on the AL Wild Card Series roster. He could become the first player since 2020 to make his major league debut in the playoffs.
Guardians starting pitchers (3): Gavin Williams, Tanner Bibee, Slade Cecconi
Gavin Williams and Tanner Bibee will start Games 1 and 2. If necessary, Slade Cecconi will start Game 3.
Guardians relievers/openers (8): Cade Smith, Hunter Gaddis, Erik Sabrowski, Matt Festa, Tim Herrin, Joey Cantillo, Jakob Junis, Kolby Allard
The Guardians will go with an eight-man bullpen.