Rookie Chase DeLauter Returns to Guardians' Lineup for Home Opener

The former James Madison star made an immediate impact, hitting 4 homers in his first 3 games before a brief injury absence.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:35pm

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An extreme close-up of a baseball player's batting motion, with vibrant neon brushstrokes and a sense of raw, kinetic energy, conceptually representing the dynamic start to Chase DeLauter's MLB career.A dynamic illustration captures the explosive energy of rookie sensation Chase DeLauter as he steps up to the plate for the Guardians' home opener.Cleveland Today

Chase DeLauter, the Cleveland Guardians' 2022 first-round draft pick, has returned to the team's lineup for their home opener against the Cubs. DeLauter, who made his MLB debut in the postseason last year, started the season on a tear, hitting 4 home runs in his first 3 games before missing a few games with a foot injury. The Guardians are eager to have the promising rookie back in action as they open their home schedule.

Why it matters

DeLauter's hot start and return to the lineup is an exciting development for the Guardians, who are looking to build on their success from last season. As one of the team's top prospects, DeLauter's performance could be a key factor in the Guardians' fortunes this year.

The details

DeLauter left Monday's game against the Dodgers after fouling a pitch off his left foot, but he was back in the lineup batting second for Friday's home opener against the Cubs. The 23-year-old outfielder made the Guardians' roster out of spring training after hitting .459 with 3 homers and 10 RBIs. In the season-opening series against Seattle, DeLauter hit 4 home runs in the first 3 games of his MLB career before going 0-for-4 in the fourth game.

  • DeLauter left Monday's game against the Dodgers after fouling a pitch off his left foot.
  • DeLauter returned to the Guardians' lineup for Friday's home opener against the Cubs.

The players

Chase DeLauter

A 23-year-old outfielder who was the Guardians' first-round draft pick in 2022 out of James Madison University. He made his MLB debut in the postseason last year and has gotten off to a hot start this season, hitting 4 home runs in his first 3 games.

Stephen Vogt

The manager of the Cleveland Guardians.

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What they’re saying

“'My foot is good and I'm ready to go. I came in on Thursday and did a little bit of work. It feels good.'”

— Chase DeLauter

“'I'd already run out on to the field (for the first time). I'd already had the huge swing of emotions between what happened to me in the first inning and getting my first hit in the next game. I'd already gone through that.'”

— Chase DeLauter

“'I just try to be where my feet are, being grateful that you're out there and putting your mind to the things that you can really control.'”

— Chase DeLauter

What’s next

DeLauter will look to continue his hot start and help the Guardians get off to a strong start at home as they take on the Cubs in their home opener.

The takeaway

DeLauter's return to the lineup is an exciting development for the Guardians, who are hoping the promising rookie can build on his early-season success and provide a boost to their offense as they aim to build on last year's playoff appearance.