Guardians Commit to Chase DeLauter in Right Field

Rookie outfielder to get consistent playing time in right field to keep him healthy

Mar. 23, 2026 at 9:05am

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The Cleveland Guardians have decided to give rookie outfielder Chase DeLauter consistent playing time in right field for the upcoming season. Manager Stephen Vogt said the organization feels this is the best way to keep the injury-prone DeLauter healthy and productive. While the Guardians' outfield will see plenty of rotation elsewhere, right field will belong to DeLauter as long as he can stay on the field.

Why it matters

The Guardians have historically platooned their outfielders, but they seem willing to make an exception for DeLauter, their top prospect, in order to help him develop and stay healthy. This represents a shift in the team's approach and a sign of their confidence in DeLauter's long-term potential.

The details

DeLauter, a 6'4" 235-pound outfielder, is coming off a strong spring training where he's hitting .429 with one home run and eight RBIs. The Guardians' medical and coaching staff believe that keeping DeLauter in right field will allow him to stay closer to 100% healthy, as he's been bothered by injuries early in camp. While DeLauter may not play every day, the team is committed to giving him the majority of the playing time in right field to start the season.

  • DeLauter went 2-for-2 with two RBIs in the Guardians' 8-2 Cactus League win over the Reds on Sunday, March 23, 2026.
  • The Guardians open the 2026 season with a seven-game road trip against the Mariners and Dodgers starting on Thursday, March 27, 2026.

The players

Chase DeLauter

A 6'4", 235-pound rookie outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians who is the team's top prospect.

Stephen Vogt

The manager of the Cleveland Guardians.

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What they’re saying

“We want to keep Chase as close to 100% every day as possible. No. 1, right field is Chase's best position. It also allows him to have the consistency in that 'I know where I'm going to be and I know where I've got to go.'”

— Stephen Vogt, Manager

“His arm is strong. Everything this guy does is powerful.”

— Stephen Vogt, Manager

What’s next

The Guardians will work out at T-Mobile Park in Seattle on Wednesday, March 26, 2026, their off day before the season opener.

The takeaway

The Guardians' commitment to giving Chase DeLauter consistent playing time in right field represents a shift in their typical outfield rotation strategy, signaling their belief in the rookie's long-term potential if he can stay healthy.