No matter what happens from now until the start of Spring Training, the Cleveland Guardians’ lineup going into Opening Day will look much different than it did when the 2024 season ended.

Josh Naylor and Andres Gimenez are out; Carlos Santana is in. The Guardians will either rely heavily on their prospects and youth, sign one of the remaining free agents, or swing a trade to fill their spots.

Based on everything we know about the Guardians’ offseason so far, here’s the best prediction for Cleveland’s 2025 Opening Day lineup.

LF – Steven Kwan
1B – Carlos Santana
3B – Jose Ramirez
DH – Kyle Manzardo
2B – Juan Brito
CF – Lane Thomas
RF – Austin Hays
SS – Brayan Rocchio
C – Bo Naylor

There’s nothing too surprising with the top four in this order. The most significant decision Stephen Vogt will have in this section of the lineup is who to bat second.

Manzardo had some experience hitting their last season, but Santana still has a tremendous eye and on-base percentage (.328 OBP in 2024), making him a better option as a top-two hitter in the order.

Moving on to second base, the Guardians have some decisions to make with how they want to approach the position heading into this season. As of now, allowing Brito to be the full-time second baseman appears to be the best option.

Yes, there are some defensive concerns, but his offensive potential should make up for that.

Lane Thomas was at the center of some trade rumors earlier this offseason, but the Guardians would need a backup option if they were to move on from him. So far, that hasn’t happened, so it’s hard to envision a Thomas trade happening.

Maybe the biggest shock of this prediction is including Austin Hays as the starting right fielder.

The Guardians need more offensive production from their outfield. It’s no secret that they’re a money-conscious organization, so signing someone such as Hays with a ton of upside makes a lot of sense for the team.

Maybe it won’t end up being Hays who becomes a Guardian, but Cleveland should at least sign one low-risk, high-reward veteran before the offseason is over.

If the front office doesn’t sign a veteran outfield, Jhonkensy Noel is the next option up to start in the Guardians lineup.

Both Rocchio and Naylor could take big steps forward in 2025. They’re likely locks at their defensive positions, but it’s hard to move them up any further than this because of their regular season performances from a year ago.

It’s important to note that there is still plenty of time before Spring Training games actually begin and plenty of free agents left, which could directly or indirectly impact the Guardians. This is just a prediction of what Cleveland’s lineup could be, not what it will be.

But until that happens, this type of lineup feels like what Guardians fans could see on March 27.

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Cleveland, OH – Snowfall will sweep into Ohio late Sunday evening, potentially impacting Monday morning commutes, especially south of US-30. Drivers in Cleveland and surrounding areas are urged to prepare for slick conditions and reduced visibility during peak travel times.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Cleveland, the storm will arrive after midnight and persist through Monday afternoon. Snow accumulation is expected to vary, with areas south of US-30 seeing 2-4 inches, while northern regions may receive less than 2 inches. A sharp gradient in snowfall amounts is predicted, making road conditions unpredictable across the region.

High winds, gusting up to 32 mph, are expected Monday, further reducing visibility. Motorists are advised to use caution and allow extra travel time. Blustery conditions will persist through Monday evening, and wind chills will make temperatures feel even colder.

Looking ahead, scattered snow showers will continue through midweek. Tuesday’s high is forecast at 29°F, with light snow possible. By Wednesday, expect additional flurries and a high near 25°F. The colder pattern is set to linger through the week, with highs in the mid-20s and overnight lows dipping into the teens.

Stay updated with local weather advisories and check road conditions before heading out. Emergency kits with blankets, water, and flashlights are recommended for those traveling longer distances.

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CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio (WOIO) – One woman was killed and a teen was injured after an early morning shooting Saturday in Cleveland Heights.

According to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office, the murder victim has been identified as 74-year-old Edith Moore.

According to a news release from Mayor Khalil Seren, at 3 a.m. Saturday officers were dispatched to the 3500 block of Randolph Road for a report of two people shot.

Neighbor China Kelley told 19 News it’s heartbreaking to hear the victim who lived nearly three-quarters of a century sadly died because of senseless gun violence, “To die like this from a bullet of a young person — of your kind, that’s awful. I used to see her sit out on her porch and her grandkids would be playing outside.”

When officers arrived they found Moore with a gunshot wound to her head, according to the release.

Officers also found an 18-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his leg.

The teen was taken to the hospital, according to the release.

Although Cleveland Heights Police Department detectives are investigating, there have been no suspects identified or arrests made.

According to the release, a motive is unknown, but this incident does not appear to be random.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact detectives at 216-291-3883.

Callers can also remain anonymous by calling the Crime Stoppers Tip Hotline at 216-252-7463.

This is a developing story. Be sure to check back with 19 News for updates.

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