Guardians' Prospects Shine in Split-Squad Games

Chase DeLauter and Daniel Espino impress with strong performances

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Cleveland Guardians' top prospects, outfielder Chase DeLauter and pitcher Daniel Espino, had standout performances in the team's split-squad games on March 1. DeLauter hit a double and a two-run home run, while Espino pitched well in his outing.

Why it matters

The strong showings by DeLauter and Espino are encouraging signs for the Guardians' farm system and future. Both players are considered top talents in the organization and their development will be crucial as the team looks to build a contender.

The details

In the Guardians' 8-3 win over the Rockies, DeLauter went 2-for-4 with a double and a two-run home run. The 22-year-old outfielder now has five hits in eight at-bats this spring. Teammate Milan Tolentino also hit a three-run home run in the game. On the pitching side, right-hander Daniel Espino, the Guardians' top pitching prospect, had a solid outing in the team's other split-squad game.

  • The games took place on March 1, 2026.

The players

Chase DeLauter

A top outfield prospect in the Guardians' farm system.

Daniel Espino

The Guardians' top pitching prospect, considered one of the best young arms in baseball.

Milan Tolentino

A Guardians infield prospect who hit a three-run home run in the split-squad game.

Jose Ramirez

The Guardians' star third baseman and one of the best players in the MLB.

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What they’re saying

“Chase DeLauter and Daniel Espino are two of our top young talents, and it's great to see them performing well in these early spring training games.”

— Chris Antonetti, Guardians President of Baseball Operations

What’s next

The Guardians will continue to monitor the progress of DeLauter and Espino throughout spring training as they look to solidify their roster for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The strong performances by DeLauter and Espino in the Guardians' split-squad games are a positive sign for the team's future, as they look to develop their top prospects into key contributors at the major league level.