Donovan Mitchell Praises Guardians' Chase DeLauter After Hot Start

The Cavs star gives a shoutout to the rookie outfielder for his early-season exploits at the plate.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:21pm

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Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell has been impressed by the hot start of Cleveland Guardians rookie outfielder Chase DeLauter, who is batting .346 with 5 home runs and 8 RBIs in the early part of the 2026 MLB season. Mitchell took to social media to praise DeLauter's performance, calling him a 'young fella' who is 'going crazy' at the plate.

Why it matters

Mitchell's shoutout to DeLauter highlights the growing connection between Cleveland's professional sports teams and the city's passionate fan base. As the Guardians look to build on their success and the Cavaliers aim for a deep playoff run, the cross-promotion and support between the two franchises could help drive interest and engagement among Cleveland sports fans.

The details

DeLauter, a 2022 first-round draft pick by the Guardians, is off to a blistering start in his rookie campaign. Through 8 games, he is batting .346 with 9 hits, 5 home runs, and 8 RBIs. His performance has caught the attention of Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, who posted on social media praising DeLauter's exploits. The Guardians defeated the Chicago Cubs 4-1 on Friday, with DeLauter going 3-for-4 at the plate including a home run.

  • On Friday, April 3, 2026, the Guardians defeated the Cubs 4-1.
  • On Saturday, April 4, 2026, the Guardians are playing the Cubs in the second game of their three-game series at 6:15 CST.
  • On Saturday, April 4, 2026, the Cavaliers are playing the Indiana Pacers at home at 5:00 pm CST.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

A seven-time NBA All-Star and star player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who is averaging 27.7 points and 5.7 assists per game this season.

Chase DeLauter

A rookie outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians who was the 16th overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft. He is off to a hot start this season, batting .346 with 5 home runs and 8 RBIs.

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What they’re saying

“Young fella is going crazy!! Sheeeh”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers player

What’s next

The Guardians and Cubs will play the second game of their three-game series on Saturday, April 4th at 6:15 CST. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers will host the Indiana Pacers at 5:00 pm CST on the same day.

The takeaway

Mitchell's public praise of DeLauter's hot start demonstrates the growing synergy between Cleveland's professional sports franchises. As the city's teams aim for success, the cross-promotion and mutual support between the Cavaliers and Guardians could help drive fan engagement and excitement in the community.