Three Cleveland Guardians Prospects Who Could Debut This Season

The Guardians have a history of bringing up young talent, and these three players could make their MLB debuts in 2026.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Cleveland Guardians are known for developing young talent, and this season could see the debuts of three top prospects - infielder Travis Bazzana, infielder Juan Brito, and starting pitcher Khal Stephen. Bazzana, the team's 2024 first-round pick, is expected to make his debut barring any setbacks, while Brito and Stephen were acquired in trades and will look to capitalize on their opportunities.

Why it matters

The Guardians have a reputation for identifying and developing young talent, and the debuts of these three prospects could signal the next wave of talent coming to Cleveland. Their performances could impact the team's success this season and beyond.

The details

Bazzana, a second baseman, was the Guardians' first-round pick in 2024 but missed most of last season due to an oblique injury. Brito, an infielder, was acquired from the Colorado Rockies in a trade that sent outfielder Nolan Jones the other way. Stephen, a starting pitcher, came to Cleveland in a trade that sent ace Shane Bieber to the Toronto Blue Jays.

  • Bazzana was drafted by the Guardians in 2024.
  • Brito was traded to the Guardians in November 2022.
  • Stephen was acquired by the Guardians in a trade last year.

The players

Travis Bazzana

A second baseman who was the Guardians' first-round pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. He missed most of last season due to an oblique injury.

Juan Brito

An infielder acquired by the Guardians in a trade with the Colorado Rockies in November 2022, sending outfielder Nolan Jones the other way.

Khal Stephen

A starting pitcher acquired by the Guardians in a trade with the Toronto Blue Jays last year, in which the Guardians sent ace Shane Bieber to Toronto.

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The takeaway

The Guardians have a strong track record of developing young talent, and the debuts of Bazzana, Brito, and Stephen could signal the next wave of talent coming to Cleveland. Their performances this season could have a significant impact on the team's success both now and in the future.