Top Prospect Called Up as Guardians Face Off Against Tigers
Cleveland Guardians Add Promising Outfielder Chase DeLauter to Wild Card Roster
On September 30, 2025, the Cleveland Guardians announced the inclusion of outfielder Chase DeLauter on their roster for the upcoming wild-card series against the Detroit Tigers. This notable decision comes as DeLauter, a former 16th overall pick in the 2022 amateur draft, prepares to make his postseason debut, a rare opportunity for a player with no prior Major League experience.
Chase DeLauter: Overcoming Injuries and Making a Comeback
Despite a challenging year marred by injuries, DeLauter exhibited his potential at the Triple-A level. Playing in 34 games at Triple-A Columbus, he achieved a batting average of .278, hitting five home runs and collecting 21 RBIs. He turns 24 on October 8, and his journey back to the field has been arduous.
DeLauter faced significant setbacks, starting with a pregame injury on February 28 that led to bilateral core muscle surgery shortly after. After a brief stint in the rookie-level Arizona Complex League, he made his season debut for the Columbus team on May 23 but had to exit the lineup again by July 12 when he suffered a fractured hamate bone in his right wrist, which required further surgery.
Potential Historic Debut in Postseason Play
Should DeLauter take the field, he will be the first player to debut in the postseason since 2020, joining the ranks of notable players like Shane McClanahan and Alex Kirilloff. Guardians Manager Stephen Vogt expressed confidence in DeLauter’s ability, stating that he has been participating in batting practice at the team’s Arizona complex and is considered their strongest available bat.
Vogt explained the rationale behind selecting DeLauter, noting the strategic decision to carry 11 pitchers in the series, emphasizing, “Chase was healthy, and he’s the best bat we have available.” DeLauter is likely to operate as an option in either center or right field, joining six other left-handed bats on the Guardians’ bench.
Reactions from the League: Insights from Detroit’s A.J. Hinch
Detroit Tigers’ manager A.J. Hinch commented on DeLauter’s promotion, noting that it was not unexpected. The close-knit relationships between teams across different league levels mean players often become familiar through face-to-face encounters. Hinch stated, “You can’t get into the building and not be seen by somebody,” highlighting the interconnectedness of teams in the league.
Roster Updates from Competing Teams
The wild card series also sees other teams announcing their rosters. The Tigers made adjustments by leaving off right-handers Chris Paddack and Tanner Rainey while adding Paul Sewald. In the American League, the New York Yankees have included rookie catcher J.C. Escarra and pitchers Paul Blackburn and Will Warren, while omitting Luis Gil, Ryan Yarbrough, and outfielder Austin Slater.
Key Roster Changes in the American League
- New York Yankees:
- Included: J.C. Escarra, Paul Blackburn, Will Warren
- Excluded: Luis Gil, Ryan Yarbrough, Austin Slater
- Boston Red Sox:
- Included: Nate Eaton, David Hamilton
- Excluded: Lucas Giolito (due to elbow injury)
- San Diego Padres:
- Included: Luis Campusano, Freddy Fermin, Martín Maldonado
- Excluded: Elias Díaz (sore left oblique)
As the postseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Chase DeLauter, whose debut could mark a significant milestone in the Guardians’ journey and add a fresh narrative to this year’s playoff action.
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