We all saw the FanGraphs piece released this past week breaking down the offseason power rankings ahead of the 2025 season, and a lot of questions were raised about why the Guardians, coming off a division title and ALCS appearance, were ranked 22nd. To me, the answer is very easy. It’s starting pitching. For starters, these projections are fueled by strictly Steamer projections. The article states that ZiPS projections will be added later in the offseason.
Secondly, and most importantly, it highlights the most glaring need that this team has had in an offseason in my lifetime: there is no starting pitching to be found on the major league level for the Guardians right now.