Locked On Guardians - Daily Podcast On The Cleveland Guardians

Out of the All-Star break, is the Cleveland Guardians first focus trade deadline talks or extension talks? Will Travis Bazzana be the next breakout star signed long-term? Justin Lada evaluates the urgency for the Guardians to lock in Bazzana, Parker Messick, and Chase DeLauter before looming CBA uncertainties shake up the league and players like JJ Wetherholt and Chase Burns sign extensions. The show also digs into midseason trade targets such as potential big swings like Mason Miller to versatile bats, and emphasizes the team’s need for rotation depth and savvy decision-making at the deadline.  

Everydayer Clu...

Now that MLB's All-Star break is over, it's time to turn our attention to the trade deadline. After Parker Messick’s All-Star dominance, Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down why good pitching still outshines offense and discuss which reinforcements the Guardians should seek at the trade deadline. We get into relief targets like Mark Leiter Jr., trade possibilities involving Spencer Steer,  and the real value of rumored trade candidates in a crowded market. We also spend time on the latest minor league signings, including Pablo Figueroa and intriguing undrafted additions.

00:00 Does good pitching still beat...

Cleveland Guardians target high-upside arms in the MLB Draft as Jeff Ellis spotlights Liam Peterson and Logan Schmidt—could these picks redefine the organization’s pitching factory reputation? The episode breaks down all 20 draft selections and key undrafted rumors, exploring prospects’ ceilings, statistical standouts, and bold left-handed additions amid a shifting MLB development landscape.

Are the Guardians maximizing value in a small-market system? Jeff Ellis unpacks the financial challenges, roster strategies, and surprise signing rumors swirling around elite talents like Pablo Figueroa. Get inside insights on fastball-heavy college systems, shifting prospect rankings, and how new draftee...

After what seemed like a disappointing first half, the Cleveland Guardians actually have a lot of positives heading into the second half, counting on players like Chase DeLauter, Travis Bazzana and getting Jose Ramirez and Angel Martinez back. Justin Lada spotlights the Guardians’ first-half highs and lows, dissecting the offensive evolution, pitching rotation stability and the pressing need for bullpen improvements. We also get into Steven Kwan's recent resurgance and important, as well the big prospect promotions from Juneiker Caceres ro Aaron Walton and Noaln Schubart. And the show debates where new draft picks such as Liam Peterson, Logan Sc...

Cleveland Guardians are heading into the All-Star break almost TOO HOT after sweeping the Miami Marlins with timely hitting, great pitching and attention to detail on the bases and in the field.  

Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis discuss Chase DeLauter’s power resurgence, how savvy baserunning and standout plays from Steven Kwan and Kahlil Watson reignited the team’s momentum. We compare the Guardians first half of 2025 to 2026 to see where things have improved. And after the MLB draft concluded this weekend, we give a quick overview of the Guardians 2026 draft class including top picks Liam Peterson and L...

MLB Draft Day brings bold predictions and franchise-altering choices as Jeff Ellis reveals his complete 40-pick mock draft. Who will the Chicago White Sox select with the top pick—Rock Cholowsky or a surprise contender? The debate heats up around high-profile names like Grady Emerson, Vahn Lackey, and Jacob Lombard, with team tendencies and draft history shaping each selection.

Key insights include strategies like trading down with slot values, the evolving emphasis on college bats versus prep talent, and the shifting philosophies of teams like the Cleveland Guardians and Pittsburgh Pirates. Will teams target power and...

Cleveland Guardians crush the Minnesota Twins with near-flawless execution, reclaiming first place in the AL Central. Gavin Williams dominates on the mound, Gabby Arias delivers one of the hardest-hit balls of the year, and Patrick Bailey continues to impress behind the plate. Can this resilient squad maintain momentum against the surging Miami Marlins?

Jeff Ellis breaks down the Guardians’ rollercoaster week, from bullpen woes and defensive slip-ups to standout performances by Chase Delauter and Kyle Brayan Rocchio. The episode explores trade rumors involving right-handed power, bullpen improvements, and the ripple effect of key roster moves lik...

Cleveland Guardians’ bullpen issues boil over after another tough loss to the Minnesota Twins. Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada analyze why walks, blown leads, and inconsistent performances by names like Matt Festa and Shawn Armstrong have put Cleveland on edge. Is it time for a shake-up—and who gets the call next? We also do a deep dive on the Guardians’ draft dilemma: Is targeting high school pitchers at pick 19 a massive risk? Listen for some sobering stats on the lack of success for prep arms. Plus, why recent trends prove college arms build winners.  

Eve...

Cleveland Guardians are sunk by lack of fundamentals on defense and offense in loss to Minnesota Twins. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down Joey Cantillo’s gutsy effort on the mound despite spotty defense, look at the shortcomings of Rhys Hoskins and Kyle Manzardo, and analyze lineup inefficiencies—especially with runners in scoring position. We also debate potential trades, dissect the impact of the Patrick Bailey move, and debate the Pirates’ plan to shop their competitive balance pick. We are getting deep on MLB Draft analysis of top college pitching targets, from Cameron Flukey to Tegan Kuhns and Jack R...

Cleveland Guardians eye high-upside prep hitters ahead of the MLB Draft. Could Archer Horn, Tyler Spangler, or Bo Lawrence bolster their thin shortstop pipeline? Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada debate the top high school bats that could land at pick 19, review standout combine performances, and assess how Cleveland’s conservative draft history shapes their likely strategy. Plus, Austin Hedges shocks with a surge as the Guardians’ best-hitting catcher, thanks to swing adjustments and smarter plate discipline. We also look at the resurgence of  Alfonsin Rosario and look into the Guardians’ showdown with the Twins.

00:00 Logan Hughes B...

Cleveland Guardians split a tense four-game set with the Chicago White Sox. Can the Guardians find edge while still missing key pieces after a roller-coaster weekend marked by bullpen struggles, and rain delays follies. Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada break down Tanner Bibee’s disrupted start, the bullpen’s unexpected positives in the weekend series. The 2026 MLB Draft is this week, so we start off by discussing potential college hitter targets for the Guardians with an honest assessment of this year’s class, while also celebrating three Guardians All-Star selections.

00:00 In-game rain delay dynamics  

05:54...

Cleveland Guardians rally for a dramatic walk-off win over the Chicago White Sox, powered by Brayan Rocchio’s clutch homer and Stephen Kwan’s stellar defense. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the pivotal matchup, discuss the struggles of Cooper Ingle in left field, questionable managerial decisions by Stephen Vogt, and key moments from Travis Bazzana and David Fry. We also debate high-leverage bullpen choices, defensive lapses by Gabriel Arias, and the emotional toll on players like Rocchio during Venezuela’s crisis. Plus, we preview more MLB draft targets.

00:00 Biggest win the of the year?<...

Cleveland Guardians avoid a sweep of the Texas Rangers with a hitting surge and lockdown defense. Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada break down the Guardians’ clutch win over the Texas Rangers, thanks to Chase DeLauter’s red-hot return and David Fry’s timely home run. We also give credit to Daniel Schneemann’s Gold Glove-worthy plays. Other updates include Justin Campbell’s injury setback, Cooper Ingle and Ralphy Velazquez earning Futures Game nods. And we go deep on some MLB draft names to know as well as a quick preview of the crucial series against the surging Chicago White Sox.

Cleveland Guardians stumble as costly mistakes and questionable late-game decisions overshadow Tanner Bibee's strong outing. Can the team find stability before it's too late? Rookie Cooper Ingle's rough night raises concerns and manager Stephen Vogt faces scrutiny for bullpen and pinch-hitting choices as the Guardians’ offense continues to sputter. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dive into key promotions in the minor leagues, including Justin Campbell’s rise to Triple-A and Bennett Thompson’s offensive surge. We also debate Braylon Doughty’s status as the Guardians’ top pitching prospect and dissect current trade values as the deadline looms.  

00:00...

Cleveland Guardians stumble in frustrating loss to Chris Paddack and Texas Rangers as questionable lineup moves and missed opportunities overshadow a promising start. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down why the Guardians’ offense fizzled against Paddack and the Rangers, spotlighting lineup decisions, the ongoing David Fry dilemma, and who actually fits on the roster. We also cover Parker Messick’s outing, bullpen struggles, and the role of luck in close games. We also analyze Baseball America’s latest mock draft picks for Cleveland, raising the debate: Should the team target college bats, arms like Sawyer Strosnider, or take a shot...

Cleveland Guardians rallied past adversity to win a gritty series over Seattle Mariners. Is this be the spark that can turn them around in wake of their injuries and clutch issues? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis unpack how the Guardians overcame shaky relief pitching, ugly defense, and runners left stranded to come through when it counted most. We dug more into Joey Cantillo’s breakout, Slade Cecconi's consistency, and crucial contributions from rookies like Cooper Ingle and Kahlil Watson. The show also states necessary risks—such as shifting Ingle to left field—are paying off and questions the bullpen’s reliab...

Cleveland Guardians shake up their outfield as top prospect Cooper Ingle earns his MLB promotion—can his disciplined approach ignite the offense? Jeff Ellis spotlights the implications of Ingle’s call-up, breaking down his unique hitting profile, potential defensive adjustments, and what this means for Stuart Fairchild and Petey Halpin’s roster futures.

Jeff Ellis explores under-the-radar trade possibilities including Henry Bolte, Casey Schmitt, and Lars Nootbaar, weighing how targeted moves might boost depth for a playoff push. Plus, get a positional preview of the Guardians’ critical series against the Seattle Mariners—can Cleveland hitters compete wit...

Cleveland Guardians survive a gut wrenching game vs. the Chicago White Sox, avoiding a sweep. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians’ nerve-racking victory, spotlighting Kahlil Watson’s timely hits, the team’s concerning outfield shuffle, and if the call for Cooper Ingle is coming soon. We also get into Tanner Bibee's recent stretch of reliability. And the show covers who the Cleveland Guardians  could take with 19th overall pick such as Archer Horn, Tyler Spangler, and Cade Townsend. We also discuss theories about the Guardians managing starting rotation fatigue.

00:00 A gutwrenching bullpen performa...

Parker Messick dominated the Chicago White Sox with an All-Star caliber start, but the offense flailed once again in the Cleveland Guardians 2-1 loss. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dive into Messick's continued development and how he's leveled up. We also get into the Guardians’ recurring struggles with runners in scoring position and the potential impact of Chase DeLauter’s return from injury. Also on the show, we cover the MLB Draft Combine, looking at interesting performances by Ethan Wachsmann,  Rintaro Sasaki and Caden Bogenpohl, who all have potential of traits and tools Cleveland targets.  

00:00 Parker...

Cleveland Guardians drop a winnable game to the Chicago White Sox thanks to bullpen mismanagement and roster mistakes from the offseason. How much of this loss falls on skipper Stephen Vogt and the front office? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis debate the fallout from relying too heavily on Cade Smith for a six-out save and the missed opportunity to add Randall Grichuk as a needed platoon bat. We also debate how good Gavin Williams’ performance really was in this game, the ugly Gabriel Arias platinum sombrero, and whether the team’s platooning strategy actually works with its current roster. The...

Cleveland Guardians continue to search for more offensive help in the midst of injuries, and they need to make a call for more help with Jose Ramirez, Chase DeLauter, and Angel Martinez sidelined. Can prospects like Cooper Ingle and Kody Huff provide more of what they're missing. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis discuss why the starting rotation can hold this team afloat if more internal offensive reinforcements are called. The show also gets into Stuart Fairchild and Petey Halpin, being redundant as well as the including the future of Rhys Hoskins. We also talk about why the trade market...

Cleveland Guardians power past the Milwaukee Brewers thanks to big homers from Travis Bazzana and Kyle Manzardo. Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada dive into the Guardians offense and shaky bullpen escape from a near-sweep. We also unpack a monster day from Cooper Ingle and debate Cleveland’s need in the outfield. The episodes features our reactions to MLB's CBA proposal to the draft, previewing the Houston Astros series and MLB Draft mock targets like Chris Hacopian and Jared Gridlinger.  

00:00 Brewers have an imposing lineup

03:22 Cade Smith's hitter strategy

09:01 Rest of bullpen stru...

Cleveland Guardians stumble despite Daniel Schneemann’s grand slam and Daniel Espino’s electrifying MLB debut, thanks to Gavin Williams’ struggles against the Milwaukee Brewers. Can the Guardians’ pitching bounce back in time to keep and get back on track? Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada dissect Williams' recent pitching woes, the offense’s reliance on big swings, Daniel Espino's electric debut and the impact of injuries to key players like Chase DeLauter. The show dives into Khalil Watson’s call-up, possible trade targets including Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki, and whether the lineup order really matters with Cleveland’s current roster...

Cleveland Guardians face pivotal roster turmoil as injuries sideline Angel Martinez and Chase DeLauter, that may force urgent callups. Are call-ups for outfield prospects Cooper Ingle and Kahlil Watson imminent, and can new faces energize a struggling lineup during a tough stretch? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians’ offensive challenges, tough decisions involving Stuart Fairchild and Petey Halpin, and look at the potential impact of prospects like Watson. We also look at the ramifications of DFA’ing George Valera, Juan Brito’s fit, and Slade Cecconi’s encouraging recent starts. Catch all the analysis, predictions, and the late...

Who are the Cleveland Guardians Top 10 prospects of the last 10 years?  Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis celebrate 10 years of the Locked On podcast network by revealing their top 10 Guardians prospects of the past decade, dissecting the peaks and hype cycles of names like Triston McKenzie, Yandy Diaz, Nolan Jones, Daniel Espino, Brady Aiken, and Clint Frazier.

We attempt to break down the nuances of prospect evaluation, contrasting hype versus longevity, and spotlight the emergence of high-upside players like Travis Bazzana, Cooper Ingle, and Angel Genao. We also get into trade value tiers from the 2026 prospects ahead of t...

Cleveland Guardians are bracing for a pivotal stretch as Jose Ramirez heads to the IL with a broken hamate bone. How will the lineup and clubhouse respond to the absence of their leader ? Tanner Bibee dominated the Tigers, Joey Cantillo shined, and Daniel Schneemann stepped up, but is elite pitching enough with key bats missing? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the ripple effects of recent injuries to Chase DeLauter and Angel Martinez, questionable roster decisions like George Valera DFA, and why Gabby Arias and Daniel Schneemann will split time at third base. The hosts debate the loss...

Cleveland Guardians make a surprising move as Daniel Espino receives a long-awaited call-up to the majors after a remarkable comeback journey. Can Espino’s electric fastball and slider become a game-changer for Cleveland’s bullpen? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the implications of Espino’s arrival, his battle back from multiple shoulder surgeries, and how his high-velocity arsenal—racking up 29 strikeouts in 18⅔ Triple-A innings—could reshape late-game strategy.

The bonus episode goes deep into analysis on Espino’s pitch data, command struggles, and how Cleveland might deploy him as a premium fireman reliever.

00:00 Dan...

Cleveland Guardians make a somewhat surprising in trading Nolan Jones to the White Sox in a minor move, but could shake up positions among top Triple-A Prospects, opening new doors for prospects like Cooper Ingle and Kody Huff. Can the Guardians capitalize on their farm system to land impact talent before the deadline? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis spotlight the emergence of Luke Hill, shifting minor league roles, and the potential MLB impact of Gabriel Arias after a strong rehab stint. The show also gives into insights on the upcoming College World Series draft prospects—including Cade Townsend and Ta...

Cleveland Guardians drop four straight, lose first-place grip, and face tough questions about rookie reliance and slumping stars. Can Travis Bazzana, and Chase DeLauter turn things around, or will growing pains threaten the Guardians’ postseason hopes? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the Guardians’ frustrating sweep by the Yankees, spotlighting lineup woes, bullpen struggles, and the challenge of swapping in and out rookies, where we debate whether Bazzana and DeLauter need time in Triple-A, Steven Kwan’s uncertain future, and how roster moves could impact Cleveland’s AL Central race. Are lineup changes and fresh call-ups the answer, or will...

Cleveland Guardians’ "clutch" hitting continues to be cold in frustrating series against the New York Yankees. Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada break down the Guardians’ latest struggles with runners in scoring position, exploring whether “clutch” exists and why Jose Ramirez, Steven Kwan, and others can’t deliver the big hit at the right moment. The show dissects questionable in-game decisions, including a controversial safety squeeze with Kyle Manzardo on third, and analyze the bullpen’s mixed results. We give Slade Cecconi his flowers as he continues his turnaround, keeping Cleveland in tight contests despite the offensive slump.

00:00 G...

Cleveland Guardians fall short in a playoff-style thriller against the New York Yankees, exposing bullpen vulnerabilities and key roster questions as the series seats up. The show gets into Gavin Williams’ struggles in this game, Shawn Armstrong’s late-inning hiccup, and puzzling lineup decisions around Kyle Manzardo and Chase DeLauter. We also continue to see that s the urgent need for reliable bullpen arms and another impact outfielder. We also explored how the Guardians stack up in a tightly contested American League, what internal player moves could help, and whether Cleveland’s young core can weather the season’s grind an...

Cleveland Guardians' inconsistent offense led to a disappointing end to a road trip that started strong in New York vs the Yankees.  Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the highs and lows from the latest road trip, spotlighting Tanner Bibee's first win and dissecting missed opportunities against the Yankees and Rangers. We debate the impact of lineup construction, with intriguing questions about Chase DeLauter’s struggles. We also look into the Guardians’ rare rotation durability so far and how arms like Joey Cantillo, Parker Messick, and Slade Cecconi will handle innings limits in a pennant race. We try explo...

MLB Draft intrigue heats up as potential stars like Rock Cholowsky, Grady Emerson, and Vahn Lackey ignite debate at the top of a loaded first round. Which teams will land elite shortstops, breakout prep arms, and power hitters, and who might be the surprise slider or steal of the draft? Jeff Ellis breaks down all 40 picks, spotlighting the strategies of draft-heavy franchises like the Chicago White Sox, Tampa Bay Rays, and Pittsburgh Pirates, while weighing high-upside prep talent against proven college performers.

Key discussions include the Cleveland Guardians’ search for their next left-handed bat, the San...

Cleveland Guardians claim a big series win over the New York Yankees, despite a finale loss, fueled by a stellar six-inning performance from Slade Cecconi. Despite coming up short in the finale, the Guardians saw improvement from Cecconi, got the bullpen and Chase DeLauter some rest, and are discovering areas of improvement. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis highlight the Guardians’ surging offense this series and the ongoing search for a left-handed reliever ahead of the trade deadline.

00:00 Guardians lose finale, but loss not as frustrating as earlier losses

06:02 Cecconi pitching improvement against Yankees

Cleveland Guardians stun the New York Yankees with clutch performances from Jose Ramirez and Kyle Manzardo, seizing a rare series win in the Bronx. Can the Guardians ride this momentum and pull off a sweep against Carlos Rodón? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down the team's resilience, highlight key homers against elite pitching, and evaluate Reese Hoskins’ evolving role.

The episode tackles All-Star ballot buzz, Chase DeLauter’s recent struggles, and strategic bullpen management heading into a tough stretch. Listeners get insights on Tanner Bibee’s recent form, upcoming challenges, and how rookie bats lik...

Cleveland Guardians are somehow atop the AL Central again as division rivals spiral. Can Travis Bazzana’s breakout and a league-average Jose Ramirez fuel a sustained run while the White Sox lurk just one game back? Key questions emerge as under-the-radar stars like Tanner Bibee and Davis Martin step up, while the Tigers’ catastrophic bullpen collapse and Royals’ persistent inconsistency threaten to derail their seasons. Justin Lada and Locked On experts debate the AL Central’s unpredictability, the fate of top MLB Draft picks like Roch Cholowsky and Vahn Lackey, and whether the Twins’ starting rotation depth actually keeps them afloa...

Cleveland Guardians silence Yankee Stadium as Jose Ramirez leads an offensive surge, handing the AL Cy Young favorite his worst outing of the season. Are concerns about Ramirez’s form overblown after his explosive performance? Travis Bazzana and Kyle Manzardo also make their presence felt, showing the potential impact of Cleveland’s young core. Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada break down the Guardians’ how good the lineup can be when two or three of the big names have it going and highlight bullpen mastery from Colin Holderman, Tim Herrin, and Hunter Gaddis, and discuss crucial roster moves including the latest...

Cleveland Guardians star Jose Ramirez is having an usually slow season as the MLB calendar hits June. Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis dive into the heavy data to find out what's going on and if the team's franchise cornerstone rediscover his All-Star form before it’s too late? Meanwhile, a looming series against the New York Yankees has some bracing for a tough stretch, but an easier schedule ahead.

This episode breaks down everything from Ramirez’s declining bat speed and possible lingering shoulder issues to the Guardians’ surprising resilience atop the AL Central. The show covers the im...

Cleveland Guardians’ disappointing homestand raises urgent questions—was it a fluke or cause for concern? Justin Lada and Jeff Ellis break down critical bullpen missteps, controversial umpire calls, and the ongoing struggle for consistency at the plate. We look at Tanner Bibee’s outing, the Guardians’ left-handed pitching gap, and the frustration around ABS challenges and bullpen usage during the losses to the Red Sox. This episode also debates Cooper Ingle and Kody Huff experimenting with new defensive positions. We also spend time looking at potential Cleveland Guardians MLB draft prospects from the College World Series, questioning if names like Ace...

Cleveland Guardians prospect Ralphy Velazquez turns 21 and ignites a heated debate—is he now the organization’s top prospect? Jeff Ellis and Justin Lada stack Velazquez’s AAA numbers against positional value, questioning whether his offensive ceiling surpasses that of Angel Genao, while comparing him to franchise favorites like Carlos Santana and Victor Martinez. We shake up our prospect rankings as Travis Bazzana nears graduation and names like Cooper Ingle, Jacob Cozart, and Khal Stephen moved up and down. The show also spotlights rising talents to watch—including draft-eligible stars from the College World Series and discuss who could make an...