Chase DeLauter, the Cleveland Guardians’ No. 2 prospect, is aiming for a significant contribution in 2026.
In a universe free from injuries, DeLauter might have contended for the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 2024, or even the year before. Instead, he’s focusing on 2026 to bring some much-needed power to the Guardians’ outfield.
Guardians’ Need for Outfield Power
The Guardians have lacked consistent power from their outfielders for a decade. Cleveland hasn’t seen an outfielder hit 20 home runs since Michael Brantley in 2014. No outfielder has reached 15 since Oscar Mercado in 2019. In 2023, the Guardians’ primary outfielders combined for only 11 home runs in 1,691 plate appearances.
DeLauter’s Prospect Ranking and Potential
DeLauter is currently ranked No. 46 among MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 Prospects. He stands out with his combination of size, athleticism, performance and plate discipline.
The 6-foot-3, 235-pound DeLauter blossomed into a first-round pick out of James Madison. He was the 16th overall pick in 2022. During his time with the Dukes, he slashed .402/.520/.715. In 2021, he led the Cape Cod League with nine home runs and a .589 slugging percentage.
Injury Setbacks and Minor League Performance
DeLauter’s career has been hampered by several injuries. He broke his left foot while running the bases in his Draft year and re-injured it after signing, requiring surgery that delayed his pro debut until June 2023. In April 2024, he broke his foot again, and suffered a right hamstring strain, limiting him to 39 games that season. Core muscle surgery in March and an operation to repair a broken right hamate in July also restricted his playing time last year to just 44 games.
When healthy, DeLauter has shown promise, batting .302/.384/.504 with 20 home runs in 138 Minor League games. He also hit .313/.417/.522 with six home runs in 35 games during two stints in the Arizona Fall League. He has an unorthodox swing but his timing, bat speed and strength allow him to make hard contact to all fields.
- Average exit velocity of 91.2 mph in Triple-A.
- Maximum exit velocity of 110.1 mph.
- Walked nearly as many times (22) as he struck out (23) during 34 games at Columbus.
Future Role with the Guardians
Assuming he stays healthy, DeLauter is expected to provide power as the Guardians’ everyday right fielder.
He started two games in centre field in an AL Wild Card Series last October.
DeLauter has a proven track record of handling left-handers as well as right-handers and all types of pitching.
DeLauter entered pro ball with at least 20-20 potential.