Locked On Guardians - Daily Podcast On The Cleveland Guardians

GUARDIANS' HOT STREAK KEEPS PLAYOFFS HOPES ABLAZE

The late season surge for the Cleveland Guardians continues with another thrilling win over the Detroit Tigers. Do the Guardians have enough time (and help) left to squeak into the playoffs? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' impressive victory over the Detroit Tigers, breaking Gavin Williams' gutsy performance and key contributions from unexpected heroes. The show also analyzes Stephen Vogt pinch hitting decisions and bullpen usage. We also look ahead to the ace off - Tanner Bibee vs. Tarik Skubal, and of course, we are scoreboard watching.<...

Cleveland Guardians face crucial series against Detroit Tigers. Can they keep playoff hopes alive?

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' must-win matchup with the Tigers, discussing how the Guardians will lineup their rotation this week. The guys dissect prospect Travis Bazzana's season, highlighting his potential despite injuries. They revisit their prospect draft picks, offering insights into the Guardians' farm system and player development. The show also covers playoff scenarios, potential tiebreakers, and notable minor league performances.

0:00 Intro: Guardians' crucial series against Tigers

5:02 Analyzing Tigers' hitting and Guardians' pitching m...

Cleveland Guardians face crucial series against Detroit Tigers. Can they keep playoff hopes alive?

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' must-win matchup with the Tigers, discussing how the Guardians will lineup their rotation this week. The guys dissect prospect Travis Bazzana's season, highlighting his potential despite injuries. They revisit their prospect draft picks, offering insights into the Guardians' farm system and player development. The show also covers playoff scenarios, potential tiebreakers, and notable minor league performances.

0:00 Intro: Guardians' crucial series against Tigers

5:02 Analyzing Tigers' hitting and Guardians' pitching m...

GUARDIANS DEFY ODDS: Pitching Dominance Fuels Playoff Push

Cleveland's rotation stuns MLB with league-best 2.76 ERA over 14 days. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' improbable success despite injuries, highlighting Tanner Bibee's complete game shutout and a defense drawing Vizquel-Alomar comparisons. The episode discusses all the pitching that has stepped up this year and how the team is getting it done offensively somehow. Can the Guardians maintain their momentum and secure a postseason berth?

0:00 Intro: Guardians keep winning despite challenges

5:20 Bullpen struggles and prospect injuries discussed

10:29 Guardians have o...

GUARDIANS' PLAYOFF HOPES HANG BY A THREAD

CJ Kayfus' clutch homer sparks Cleveland's crucial win over Kansas City. Can the GUARDIANS capitalize on this momentum to keep their postseason dreams alive?

Host Justin Lada breaks down the Guardians recent victory, highlighting Kayfus' game-changing blast and Gavin Williams' impressive pitching performance. This episiode covers the team's must-win series against the Chicago White Sox, potential playoff scenarios, and how young players like Parker Messick are adapting to high-pressure situations. We also also analyze prospects Travis Bazzana and Trenton Denholm, exploring their development and future roles.

...

GUARDIANS' PLAYOFF HOPES DWINDLE: Can They Salvage Their Season?

Cleveland's crushing loss to Kansas City deals a major blow to their postseason aspirations. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect the game's pivotal moments, questioning managerial decisions and bullpen usage. The guys debate the merits of chasing a playoff spot versus improving draft position, weighing the value of experience against future talent acquisition. We touch on Kyle Manzardo's recent power surge emerges as a bright spot in a challenging season. We get into the long awaited return of Daniel Espino on Arizona Fall League roster and the level...

GUARDIANS' PITCHING PROWESS: Cantillo's Near-Maddux Stuns Royals

Joey Cantillo's dominant performance against Kansas City showcases Cleveland's pitching depth. Host Jeff Ellis breaks down Cantillo's command, efficiency, and effective use of his changeup, comparing it to Slade Cecconi's recent no-hitter. The discussion shifts to Bo Naylor's catching struggles, analyzing his defensive metrics and impact on the pitching staff. Ellis explores potential trade targets to bolster the Guardians' catching position, including Atlanta's Sean Murphy. Minor league playoff updates highlight promising prospects like Nick Mitchell and Joey Oakie.

Tune in for expert analysis on Cl...

GUARDIANS DOMINATE ROYALS: Cecconi's Near No-Hitter Stuns Kansas City

Cleveland's offense explodes as Slade Cecconi flirts with history on the mound in a critical series opener. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' impressive victory, highlighting the offense's game-changing performance and its impact on the series. The show dives into Cecconi's bid at a no-hitter.

We also discussed Guardians' 2026 roster flexibility and potential salary implications.

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GUARDIANS' PLAYOFF PUSH: Can Cleveland's Pitching Propel Them to October?

Parker Messick stuns with a dominant outing against the Rays. Is this the spark Cleveland needs for a late-season surge? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Messick's impressive performance, Tanner Bibee's crucial adjustments, and Travis Bazzana's power surge. The show analyzes the Guardians' path to the postseason, highlighting key matchups and must-win series. They also discuss how Jose Ramirez and Steven Kwan had big weekends and they'll need to keep that going to keep Cleveland in the playoff equation.

0:00 Intro: Guardians win o...

GUARDIANS' PLAYOFF HOPES FADE, BUT FUTURE IS BRIGHT?

Cleveland's late-game rally fell short against Tampa Bay, dimming already minimal postseason chances. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' offensive struggle despite José Ramírez's finding it at the plate. The show makes the case why meaningful September baseball matters for young players like Kyle Manzardo and CJ Kayfus. We also go around the farm and talk about the exciting updates on Joey Oakie and Ralphy Velazquez.

0:00 Intro: Guardians still playing meaningful baseball

5:05 Analyzing Guardians' offensive approach vs Rays

1...

GUARDIANS STUN RED SOX AT FENWAY: CANTILLO SHINES, PLAYOFF HOPES ALIVE

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Cleveland Guardians' impressive victory over the Boston Red Sox, highlighting Joey Cantillo's big time performance and the confusing lineup construction that is somehow working. The show covers Steven Kwan's resurgence, the impact of recent lineup decisions, and how potential returns of Lane Thomas and John Means could reshape the Guardians' roster. The guys also dive into Cleveland's defensive improvements, upcoming challenges against the Tampa Bay Rays, and the team's push for a wild card spot.

Will...

GUARDIANS' STRUGGLES CONTINUE: 7 RUNS NOT ENOUGH FOR WIN

Cleveland's offense finally clicks, but pitching woes persist. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect the Guardians' recent performance, questioning bullpen management and the impact of key player suspensions. The hosts analyze Slade Cecconi's extended outing, debate Cade Smith's multi-inning role, and discuss how Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz's absences affect team dynamics.  

0:00 Guardians lose despite scoring 7 runs

15:27 Discussion on bullpen management and reliever usage

25:06 Impact of losing Emmanuel Clase on bullpen

30:25 Players maintaining friendships despite controversies

S...

GUARDIANS' INCONSISTENCY HOLDS THEM BACK: Can Cleveland overcome pitching woes and questionable roster construction?

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect the Cleveland Guardians' recent performance, highlighting their struggle to maintain momentum after winning the Mariners series. The hosts analyze the team's offensive slump, with only Kyle Manzardo posting an OPS above .700 in the last 30 days. They debate Stephen Vogt's on-field/on-camera temperament and how much it means. The guys talk about the confusing roster constuction and balancing player development with playoff aspirations, questioning the playing time distribution for prospects like George Valera and CJ Kayfus.

MLB playoff races heat up as Kyle Schwarber's 4-homer game stuns the league. Is this the most impressive offensive performance of the season?

Jeff Carr and the squad break down the latest developments in the American and National League playoff hunts. The hosts debate the difficulty of hitting for the cycle versus a 4-homer game, analyzing Schwarber's recent feat and its historical context. The conversation shifts to a heated MVP discussion, pitting Yankees slugger Aaron Judge against Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh.

Tune in for expert analysis on playoff positioning, offensive explosions, and the factors that...

GUARDIANS' PLAYOFF HOPES HANG IN THE BALANCE

Can the Cleveland Guardians overcome a season of setbacks to chase down a playoff spot? As August winds down, the Guardians face a critical series against the Seattle Mariners that could make or break their postseason dreams. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis analyze the matchup, highlighting key players like Kyle Manzardo who need to step up. The hosts dissect the Guardians' challenging 2025 campaign, marked by injuries, suspensions, and underperforming acquisitions. Despite the obstacles, the team has managed to stay competitive. We also cover promising prospects in Single-A, including Juneiker Caceres...

GUARDIANS STUN RAYS: Weird Win Sparks Keeps Hope Alive

Cleveland's clutch victory over Tampa Bay gave the Guardians a series win. Can they use the momentum to fuel a late-season surge? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' unexpected triumph, highlighting Nolan Jones' game-tying homer and Will Wilson's crucial contributions. The guys look at  Slade Cecconi's rebound and debate the Kyle Manzardo trade's long-term impact. We also talk the Guardians 2026 schedule and a potential new minority owner.

0:00 Intro: Guardians' weird win over Rays

5:37 Nolan Jones and Will Wilson step up...

GUARDIANS SHAKE UP ROSTER: Santana Waived, Messick Shines

Though Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are starting their engaged era, Carlos Santana's era with Cleveland ends as the Guardians place him on outright waivers. Today's show discusses while this is disappointing, its the right move because now Kyle Manzardo and CJ Kayfus should play everyday. The guys discuss Parker Messick's domination of the Tampa Bay Rays, and how it compares to other early performances by rookie Cleveland pitchers. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis also look at the future for Steven Kwan's amidst his struggles, examining his declining offensive...

GUARDIANS' OFFENSIVE WOES CONTINUE: Is there light at the end of the tunnel?

Cleveland's bats fall silent as the team endures a 30-inning scoreless streak. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect the Guardians' struggles, from Tanner Bibee's visible frustration to controversial lineup decisions. The guys debate the merits of playing Carlos Santana over David Fry against lefties, while also highlighting promising performances from prospects Khal Stephen and Yorman Gomez. With Steven Kwan's recent slump adding to the team's offensive concerns, questions loom about the Guardians' ability to turn their season around.

0:00 Intro: Guardians s...

Cleveland Guardians' playoff hopes fade as struggles mount. Can they salvage their season?

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' recent sweep by the Texas Rangers and analyze the team's diminishing postseason chances. The guys explore potential prospect call-ups, including George Valera's cycle in the minors, and dissect pitching woes plaguing both the rotation and bullpen. We also discuss Cade Smith's closer struggles, draft position implications, and the balance between developing young talent and veteran obligations.

0:00 Intro: Guardians' disappointing weekend sweep

5:00 Analyzing Guardians' inconsistent season and injuries

10:00 B...

This week, our panel of experts from across the Locked On MLB network tackles the big news that Rob Manfred teased, big changes could be coming to baseball. More teams, realignment of the divisions and maybe even more? Is this good or bad news for the future of the game? 

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GUARDIANS PROSPECTS ON THE MOVE: Bazzana's Call-Up Debate Heats Up

Will Travis Bazzana don a Cleveland Guardians uniform in September? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dissect the top prospect's potential promotion, weighing his minor league performance against service time considerations. The guys analyze Josh Hartle's impressive promotion to Akron and break down recent player releases, including Mason Hickman's departure. With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the upcoming series against the Texas Rangers is a must win a this point.

Tune in for deep insights on the Guardians' farm system, roster moves, and c...

Cleveland Guardians' playoff hopes hang by a thread after a disappointing 1-5 stretch. Can Parker Messick's impressive Major League debut spark a late-season turnaround?

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Messick's stellar 6 2/3 inning performance and debate his future in the rotation. The hosts dissect recent bullpen struggles, including Manager Stephen Vogt's controversial decision to use Cade Smith for a four-out save attempt against the Diamondbacks. They guys analyze the team's offensive woes, particularly with runners in scoring position, and discuss potential lineup changes involving David Fry and emerging prospects.

0:00 Intro: Guardians lose d...

GUARDIANS' PITCHING SHAKEUP: Williams Rebounds, Messick to Debut

Gavin Williams bounced back with a stellar performance against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Can the rotation get it back together to keep Cleveland in the playoff race? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Williams' impressive outing, Tanner Bibee's ongoing struggles, and the highly anticipated major league debut of Parker Messick. The guys analyze the roster implications of Messick's call-up and debate the Guardians' offensive woes, questioning lineup decisions involving Nolan Jones, CJ Kayfus, and Kyle Manzardo. Will Messick's left-handed arsenal neutralize the Diamondbacks' potent offense?  

GUARDIANS' PROSPECT PIPELINE HEATS UP: Velazquez's Rise, McKenzie's Return, and Injury Updates

Cleveland's farm system looks like it has a future star in Ralphy Velazquez. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis analyze the Guardians' wealth of corner bat prospects, including Kyle Manzardo and CJ Kayfus and how to make them all fit. The guys break down Triston McKenzie's AAA stint, Juan Brito's injury setting back his future, and Daniel Espino's promising recovery. We also give live updates on Gavin Williams' improved outing and Brayan Rocchio's homer keep fans in the loop on the current squad's playoff push.

GUARDIANS' PLAYOFF HOPES HANG BY A THREAD

Cleveland's pitching struggles cost them a sweep at the hands of the Atlanta Braves. Their pitching needs to get it back together to stay in the playoff face. Can Steven Kwan's offensive resurgence spark a late-season surge? Justin Lada breaks down the team's recent performances, highlighting Slade Cecconi's struggles. The host analyzes Cleveland's dwindling playoff chances, emphasizing the need for another series winning streak to stay in contention. The show explores potential rotation options, including the possibility of calling up Parker Messick for a crucial start against Arizona. Will the...

Big market MLB teams are struggling. Are the Mets, Yankees, and Dodgers facing a crisis?

Jeff Carr and the Locked On MLB Squad analyze the unexpected challenges for baseball's powerhouses. From the New York Mets' shocking collapse to the Los Angeles Dodgers' luxury tax manipulation, the hosts dissect recent performances and financial strategies. The Chicago Cubs' small-market approach comes under fire, while playoff predictions spark heated debate. Sully argues the current MLB economic structure pits "28 teams against the Mets and the Dodgers," potentially leading to future labor disputes.

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GUARDIANS STUN MARLINS, EYE BRAVES SERIES

Cleveland's resilience shines as José Ramírez makes history in a thrilling comeback win against Miami. Host Jeff Ellis breaks down Tanner Bibee's gutsy performance and Gabriel Arias' clutch plays that sealed the deal. The Guardians' playoff push intensifies as they prepare to face a battered Atlanta Braves pitching staff. Ellis dives into the Braves' recent struggles on the mound and how Cleveland can capitalize. Plus, get the inside scoop on rising stars in the Guardians' farm system, including Jacob Zibin and Juneiker Caceres.  Discover why this victory could be the tur...

GUARDIANS' FATIGUE WOES

Gavin Williams struggled after his extended no-hitter bid and it cost him and the Cleveland Guardians in a blowout loss to the Miami Marlins. Locked On Guardians discusses Williams' fatigue factor and  how Tanner Bibee's evolving arsenal raises questions about his effectiveness. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis look at the importance of Bibee's next start as well as recent suspensions' impact on team chemistry.  

0:00 Intro: Gavin Williams' struggles after near no-hitter

5:23 Analyzing Williams' pitch count and recovery

10:05 Offense mounts comeback, bullpen struggles continue

15:05 Tanner Bib...

JOSE RAMIREZ REWRITES RECORD BOOKS, POWERING GUARDIANS OVER MARLINS.

After a brief struggle, José Ramírez stepped up when the Cleveland Guardians needed him and grabbed a new franchise record in the win over the Miami Marlins.

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the team's impressive run with the best bullpen in August without Emmanuel Clase, highlighting contributions from Kyle Manzardo and Brayan Rocchio. The guys analyze the tight wild card race, emphasizing crucial matchups against the Marlins and White Sox. The show also dives into the prospect debuts by Riley Nelson and Travis Ba...

GUARDIANS' PROSPECT PIPELINE HEATS UP: Travis Bazzana to Columbus, 2025 Draft Class Assignments

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis analyze the Cleveland Guardians' minor league system, focusing on Travis Bazzana's promotion to Triple-A Columbus. The guys debate Bazzana's September call-up chances, dissect the 40-man roster crunch, and talk about which other promotions they are most excited for. The show also examines 2025 draft class assignments, including the absence of Jace LaViolette and Dean Curley while discussing their potential impact on the Guardians' future.

0:00 Intro: Prospect promotions in Cleveland Guardians system

5:02 Travis Bazzana's chances of S...

GUARDIANS SURGE: Half-Game Out of Playoff Spot Despite Star Struggles

Cleveland's baseball team rides an 8-2 hot streak, defying expectations with balanced contributions across the roster. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Kyle Manzardo's power surge, CJ Kayfus's impressive MLB debut, and how the team thrives despite Steven Kwan's offensive woes. The guys analyze the wild card race, Cleveland's favorable schedule, and debate the merits of the organization's stability-focused approach to long-term success.

Can the Guardians capitalize on their momentum and secure a playoff berth? Tune in for expert insights on Cleveland's path to...

The Milwaukee Brewers are on fire, boasting a 41-15 record in their last 60 games. Can they maintain this momentum into October? Jeff Carr and the Locked On MLB Squad analyze the Brewers' success, including unexpected contributions from players like Isaac Collins. The American League playoff picture remains murky, with teams like the Blue Jays, Mariners, and Astros vying for position. Which AL team has the most complete roster? The hosts debate the strengths and weaknesses of bubble teams, including the Cincinnati Reds and their potential late-season surge.

Tune in for expert insights on how late-season performance could...

GUARDIANS MAILBAG: Outfield Prospects, Farm System Strength, and Playoff Pitching

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis tackle burning questions from Cleveland Guardians fans. The hosts analyze potential outfield roster decisions, including Lane Thomas and Nolan Jones, while comparing the current farm system to past powerhouses. We also answer questions around prospect evaluation methods, focusing on age-to-level ratios and performance indicators. The guys explore possible extensions for top prospect Travis Bazzana and assess the playoff potential of pitchers like Gavin Williams and Tanner Bibee.

0:00 Intro: Guardians outfield and mailbag questions

5:25 Nolan Jo...

GUARDIANS' GAVIN WILLIAMS FLIRTS WITH NO-HITTER AGAINST METS

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Gavin Williams nearly etched his name in baseball history with a stunning near no-hitter against the New York Mets. His dominant performance, losing the no-no in the 9th inning, showcases the Guardians' resurgence and improved playoff odds. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Williams' impressive outing, highlighting his post-All-Star break stats and Austin Hedges' impact on the young hurler's success. The guys analyze Cleveland's offensive surge, recent acquisitions like Josh Hartle, and the team's remarkable turnaround from a 5.6% playoff chance to 24% in just one month.<...

Cleveland Guardians defy expectations, winning 5 of 6 series post-All-Star break. Can they continue an a late season push to the playoffs?

Host Justin Lada and co-host Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians' recent success, highlighting clutch performances against the New York Mets. The guys analyze bullpen strategy without Emmanuel Clase, debating Cade Smith's role and the team's closer-by-committee approach. We look at thet team hanging around the playoff race discussions include the front office's ability to build a competitive roster on a budget and standout performances from the 2024 draft class, including under-the-radar prospect Braylon Doughty.

GUARDIANS STUN METS IN EXTRA INNINGS THRILLER

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Cleveland Guardians' heart-pounding victory over the New York Mets. The show analyzes David Fry's clutch RBIs, Gabriel Arias' impressive homer, and Slade Cecconi's standout pitching performance. We also discuss Nic Enright's first career save, and how he fits the into the bullpen circle of trust without Emmanuel Clase, as well as potential minor league promotions for Travis Bazzana and Parker Messick. The guys also tease an upcoming analysis of the 2024 MLB draft class and its implications for the Guardians' farm system.

GUARDIANS SHAKE UP ROSTER: CJ KAYFUS CALL-UP SPARKS EXCITEMENT

Cleveland's MLB direction shifts as the Guardians promote top prospect CJ Kayfus. Is this the spark Cleveland needs for a late-season surge? Justin Lada breaks down Kayfus's minor league dominance, scouting report, and potential impact on the lineup. The show covers Gavin Williams' emergence as the rotation's ace, highlighting his impressive performance against the Minnesota Twins. Also covered is the Guardians' recent series wins over the Colorado Rockies and Twins, including José Ramírez's clutch homer on his jersey day. With roster moves reshaping the team, can Cleveland ca...

Several teams stun with a flurry of deadline deals, while others leave fans scratching their heads. Our hosts break down which clubs had a successful deadline, especially the teams that got multiple players without sacrificing top prospects. Plus, roster overhauls, trading away local favorites, spark frustration among some fanbases.

Tune in for expert analysis on how these moves reshape the MLB landscape and impact playoff races.

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GUARDIANS SHAKE UP ROSTER: Bieber Traded, Stephen Acquired

Cleveland's trade deadline moves send shockwaves through MLB. Shane Bieber heads to Toronto, while Khal Stephen joins the Guardians' pitching arsenal. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Bieber trade, analyzing its impact on Cleveland's future. They explore Stephen's potential as a top pitching prospect and his analytics-friendly profile. The hosts debate the decision to keep Steven Kwan, discussing his value and contract scenarios. Get insider perspectives on the Guardians' strategy, including potential call-ups and building around core players.

0:00 Trade deadline recap an...

Trade Deadline Drama: Will Kwan or Bieber Leave Cleveland?

The MLB trade deadline looms, and the Cleveland Guardians face crucial decisions. Steven Kwan and Shane Bieber's names swirl in trade rumors, but are they truly on the block? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis analyze recent reliever trades, comparing what the returns for Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase could have been. They dissect Kwan's sky-high trade value and speculate on possible deals with teams like the Mets.

The guys recap the Guardians' 5-0 victory over the Colorado Rockies and predict last-minute trades. Will the front office make...