Cleveland Guardians prospect Cooper Ingle is having a standout season as a catcher with the Akron RubberDucks.

Something remarkable has happened to the Guardians’ starting rotation in recent weeks, and it might just be the key to their playoff hopes. The same group that struggled to provide length and consistency throughout most of last season has transformed into a collection of innings-eating machines.

Steven Kwan is perfect for San Diego. A Gold Glove Award winner in three consecutive seasons, the California native leads all left fielders in Defensive Runs Saved (13) this season. San Diego would be acquiring an all-around left fielder who provides everything the team needs and is under contract through 2027.

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd started out his career with the Cleveland Guardians and credited the organization with his growth.

Jun 11, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Emmanuel Clase, middle, celebrates with first baseman Carlos Santana, left, after the Guardians beat the Cincinnati Reds at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images / Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Naquin, 34, contacted the Guardians in spring training to see if he could try a new career path as a pitcher with them. Cleveland used its first-round draft pick in 2012 to select Naquin as an outfielder. He spent parts of eight seasons in the big leagues, the first five with Cleveland, and the last with the White Sox in 2023.

The Guardians saw what Luis Ortiz could do when he pitched against them last year. Now, they believe they can work with him to unlock another level.

Guardians pitching plans entering 2024 ALDS a question mark Cleveland Guardians starter Matthew Boyd (16) pitches against the St. Louis Cardinals on Sept. 21 in St. Louis.

This urgency to find more pitching isn't to say the Guardians don't need to address their offense. However, Cleveland has a couple of young prospects and players who could take a step forward next ...

CLEVELAND — Matthew Boyd had worn the No. 48 for much of his major-league career, ... The Guardians, the poster child for pitching development, need starting pitching help.

The Guardians were knocking on the door all night. The home team in red had every opportunity to break the door down in their eventual 10-5 victory over the Orioles. Inning after inning, Cleveland just couldn't deliver with runners in scoring position.