Back in the Summer of 2021, Cleveland took Ole Miss lefty hurler Doug Nikhazy in the second round. Since then, Nikhazy has steadily worked his way up the minor league ranks within the system, and in 2024, he put together potential glimpse into his future, posting a 2.98 ERA across 123.2 Double-A and Triple-A innings, posting a strikeout rate over 25% despite not having overpowering velocity.
Yesterday, longtime Guardians writer Paul Hoynes wrote that the Guardians potentially see Nikhazy as an Opening Day arm within their staff.
Per @hoynsie, Doug Nikhazy is being looked at as an option for the Opening Day roster, whether in his natural position as a starter, or in the bullpen as the second lefty if Sabrowski is out.