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Guardians of the Future

Guardians of the Future

By Next Year in Cleveland

Justin Lada, of Next Year in Cleveland, the News-Herald/Morning Journal, and Prospects Live provides news, analysis and interviews of the Cleveland Guardians minor league system.
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From the Backfields of Goodyear

Guardians of the FutureMar 05, 2024

00:00
44:13
From the Backfields of Goodyear

From the Backfields of Goodyear

Fresh off of a trip to Guardians spring training in Arizona and two days at the player development facility, here are my observations from the backfields of Guardians spring training and some prospects in big league camp as well.


Players and storylines discussed:

What has to happen for Chase DeLauter to debut in the majors

Angel Martinez's adjustments have him as a prospect to watch this spring

Deyvison De Los Santos is having a rough camp

How can Kyle Manzardo making the Opening Day roster?

Kahlil Watson in CF?

Rafael Ramirez Jr.'s exciting physical build

Alex Clemmey looks big and impressive

Injury updates on George Valera and Daniel Espino


Subscribe for more coverage https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/p/cleveland-guardians-mlb-draft-coverage

Mar 05, 202444:13
Talking MLB Draft and Cleveland Guardians -Type College Hitters and Pitchers with Willie Hood

Talking MLB Draft and Cleveland Guardians -Type College Hitters and Pitchers with Willie Hood

The 2024 D1 college baseball season starts Friday, February 16. And in case you haven't heard, the Cleveland Guardians are picking #1 overall in the 2024 MLB Draft.So we get the D1 college season talking 2024 MLB Draft with Willie Hood.

We talk about the Guardians strategy at 1-1, how to view early season college baseball performances, and of course the three impact bats at 1-1: JJ Weatherholt, Nick Kurtz, and Travis Bazzana.


We also dig into if any college arms that could force their way into the 1-1 conversation, if Jac Caglione has any chance, and our favorite lower round college bats.


Check the watch list: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/p/cleveland-guardians-mlb-draft-coverage


Watch and subscribe on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WA05AkQ8faM

Feb 14, 202452:33
Where Will Dion Has Been This Winter

Where Will Dion Has Been This Winter

It's been a busy offseason for Guardians pitching prospect Will Dion. He got married, spent some time working out with Driveline, and caught up on some of his favorite hobbies. He was nice enough to take a half hour of his time to talk to us this week about all of that, the change in his delivery away from the Clayton Kershaw motion late last year, getting closer to his major league debut, what he's working on and what he thinks of his teammates music choice.


Thanks to Will for making time for us on the podcast.Subscribe to the Next Year in Cleveland newsletter for more on Dion and other Guardians prospects heading into spring training: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Watch on YouTube and subscribe: https://youtu.be/ocq8LbQ9WLo

Jan 23, 202431:08
Guardians Prospect Storylines for 2024

Guardians Prospect Storylines for 2024

It's a new year, and it's a big year for the Cleveland Guardians farm system. Not only did they win the draft lottery to pick #1 in the 2024 MLB draft, but there are a number of prospects in the farm system who are down to their last option season, who are Rule 5 eligible coming in November that need a big year, and a number of big name prospects coming off of injured 2023 (and 2022 in some cases) seasons that need a big 2024. On the first 2024 episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, we discuss all these names and storylines of who needs a big year and why. Subscribe to the newsletter: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Jan 09, 202459:06
Playing the Lottery

Playing the Lottery

Perhaps the biggest news of the baseball offseason for the Cleveland Guardians is winning the draft lottery for the 2024 draft, picking # 1 overall. On this episode of Guardians of the Future, Justin Lada is joined by Joe Werner (@ JoletinJoey on Twitter/X) of the self-published Prospect Digest Handbook to talk about the Guardians options at the #1 pick in 2024 as well as some historical looks at the draft for Cleveland and MLB in general. They also discuss the Guardians picking a lottery-type player in the Rule 5 draft in Deyvion De Los Santos.


Subscribe to the newsletter: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Follow Joe: https://twitter.com/JoltinJoey

https://www.amazon.com/2023-Prospect-Digest-Handbook/dp/B0BW38DFBY

Dec 12, 202301:18:17
Cleveland Guardians 40 Man Decision Day 2023

Cleveland Guardians 40 Man Decision Day 2023

Justin Lada and Willie Hood react live to the Guardians 40 man roster decisions ahead of the Rule 5 protection deadline on Nov. 14, 2023, running through who will or won't be added, the Cal Quantrill news and Daniel Espino and Cade Smith being added

Nov 15, 202301:07:38
Witness the Clip Show!

Witness the Clip Show!

The voice of Huntington Park and the Columbus Clippers, Matt Leinginger, joins the podcast to share what powers he does and doesn't have over the Columbus Clippers roster, working in minor league baseball and social media, why he's optimistic about Jhonkensy Noel, Angel Martinez, Kyle Manzardo, Cade Smith and others. And we also discuss what makes a good minor league ballpark experinece, and why he never settles for just good enough.

https://x.com/CLBClippers?s=20

https://www.tiktok.com/@clbclippers

https://www.milb.com/columbus/schedule/2024-04

Subscribe to the newsletter: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Subscribe and watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/heNIGFVAxYc

Oct 12, 202301:21:53
Reviewing the RubberDucks 2023 Season

Reviewing the RubberDucks 2023 Season

Akron RubberDucks broadcaster Marco LaNave joins the podcast to put the bow on the 'Ducks 2023 season.

Even though Akron didn't make the playoffs, there was plenty to talk about from Chase DeLauter's brief stint at the end of the season, Franco Aleman's incredible run in Double-A, and what he needs to work on. We talked about Will Dion's impressive output at Double-A and how he's able to keep it up despite the low velocity.

We also talked about Juan Brito's future in Cleveland, Aaron Bracho's resurgence, Tanner Burns' move to the bullpen, Ross Carver being an underrated pitcher, and what may be ahead for the RubberDucks in 2024.


Subscribe and watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WInH_QRwniU

Subscribe to the newsletter: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Follow Marco on Twitter: https://x.com/LaNaveMarco?s=20


Link to Jim Clark articles:

https://www.milb.com/indianapolis/news/akron-rubberducks-broadcaster-calls-3500th-game

https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2023/09/a-steady-voice-rubberducks-announcer-jim-clark-hits-milestone-in-the-booth-in-23-season.html

https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/sports/local/2023/07/12/akron-rubberducks-play-by-play-announcer-jim-clark-3500th-game/70383697007/#:~:text=Now%20about%2060%20or%20so,or%20Aeros)%20on%20the%20airwaves.


Oct 06, 202348:54
Lights Out for the Hillcats in 2023

Lights Out for the Hillcats in 2023

The Lynchburg Hillcats finished the 2023 season over .500 for the firs time since 2018, despite making the playoffs in 2022. They did it with interesting hitters between Jose Devers' surprising power at the end of the year, Guy Lipscomb's wheels, Wuilfredo Antunez's tenacity and more.


Hillcats broadcaster Jason Prill stops by to put a bow on the Hillcats 2023 season.We get into Devers' season, Jaison Chourio's brief stint, why strikeouts and walks are inconsistent at the Low-A level, if Yorman Gomez is going to be an interesting international pitching prospect, and what the 2024 Hillcats will look like.


https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Sep 22, 202301:00:34
Docking the Ship on the Captains 2023 Season

Docking the Ship on the Captains 2023 Season

As minor league baseball winds down for the 2023 season, the Lake County Captains season has come to a close. It was an interesting year with the biggest story being Chase DeLauter's exciting second half once he was healthy, showing why he was a first round pick.


On this week's Guardians of the Future, Michael Mahoney, a game day operator for the Captains, joins Justin Lada to talk about the Captains roster in 2023 including Chase DeLauter, Parker Messick, Ethan Hankins, Dayan Frias, Jake Fox, Kahlil Watson, Franco Aleman, Steven Hajjar, Cooper Ingle and more.


Follow Mike on social media https://twitter.com/MMahoney157?s=20 and subscribe to the Next Year in Cleveland newsletter https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CzTbsMNub8I

Sep 12, 202301:12:17
Comebacks and Callups

Comebacks and Callups

On this episode of the Guardians of the Future, we discuss the recent rehab games from new prospect Kyle Manzardo and if he could and will come up before the end of the year. We also talk about if George Valera should come up in September for Cleveland, what prospects could be promoted in the system like Jaison Chorio and Ralphy Velazquez. We talk about who's hot and who's not in the minors for the Guardians, why they didn't make Bryan Lavastida the backup option when Cam Gallagher got hurt, and I chat with Parker Messick after his 10 strikeout performance last week in Lake County.


Subscribe to the newsletter: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7pfq43LvsQ

Aug 22, 202334:59
Deadline Decisions and Draft Debuts

Deadline Decisions and Draft Debuts

The Cleveland Guardians had an interesting and somewhat controversial trading deadline. On this episode of Guardians of the Future, we discuss why the Guardians decided to move Aaron Civale now, why Kyle Manzardo could solve a long term need for the team, and how the Guardians got a lot of potential out of the Josh Bell deal.

We also discuss some the 2023 draft class debuting in the minors this week and why the Guardians are suddenly having these guys play in games in their draft year.


This week's episode wraps up with an interview with Guardians OF Jake Fox after his 4-4 day two weeks ago and how he's improved a the plate and in the field throughout the year. And our final interview with Akron manager Rouglas Odor, who discusses Will Dion's ability to pitch, the current roles of Tanner Burns and Jack Leftiwch, Juan Brito's success and health, Franco Aleman's breakout, and what got Angel Martinez and Jose Tena promoted.


https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Aug 09, 202345:46
Aftermath of the Draft

Aftermath of the Draft

Justin Lada and Willie Hood run through the Cleveland Guardians 2023 draft class, their thoughts on first round pick Ralphy Velazquez, high upside high school arm Alex Clemmey, interesting day two and day three players and answer your draft questions.


https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Watch on YouTube

Jul 18, 202301:21:07
Live Streaming the 1st Round of the 2023 MLB Draft

Live Streaming the 1st Round of the 2023 MLB Draft

Justin Lada, Jared Sziber and Joe Werner banter about the first round of the 2023 MLB draft leading up to the Guardians pick at 23 and then react to the pick. A long one, but plenty of fun draft and Guardians banter.

Jul 10, 202302:31:30
Will Guardians Thread the Needle in the 2023 MLB Draft?

Will Guardians Thread the Needle in the 2023 MLB Draft?

Just before the 2023 MLB draft, Justin Lada and Willie Hood look at the latest mock drafts from over at Next Year in Cleveland, the big outlets and look at possibilities for the Guardians at pick 23, 534 and 62, and then deeper in the draft. A deep dive on the Guardians draft philosophies, strengths, weaknesses, what to know, tyes like Brock Wilken, Nolan Schaunel, Colt Emerson, some of our favorite pitchers and deep sleeper hitters. If you love the Guardians and the MLB draft, this one's for you!

Latest Next Year in Cleveland mock draft: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/p/next-year-in-clevelands-2023-mock


Next Year in Cleveland draft coverage: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/p/cleveland-guardians-mlb-draft-coverage


Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/J6_4srC3dOo

Jul 07, 202301:07:41
Half First Half, Half Draft, Full Cast

Half First Half, Half Draft, Full Cast

For the first time this year, Willie Hood is back to join Justin Lada to recap the highlights and lowlights from the first half of the minor league baseball season from the Cleveland Guardians minor league system and then a whole lot of 2023 MLB Draft talk and who the Guardians could take at 23/58/96.


Subscribe to the newsletter for more: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Subscribe and watch on YouTube

Jun 27, 202301:10:03
Fair and Unfair Comparisons
May 22, 202301:24:53
Duck Tales From the Road

Duck Tales From the Road

Akron RubberDucks broadcaster Marco LaNave joins host Justin Lada for this week's episode of the podcast.

Marco gives some insight into Joey Cantillo's efforts to attack the zone and be more consistent following his 13 strikeout performance a few weeks ago, as well as looking into what has Aaron Bracho off to a potentially resurgent start to the season.

Also discussed is the tandem starter group of Doug Nikhazy and Jack Leftwich that is loaded with potential, how Bryan Lavastida can respond from his removal from the 40 man roster, what has helped Cade Smith become the top closer in the Eastern League, and getting Angel Martinez turned around.


Justin also discusses the return of George Valera, the differences between Brayan Rocchio and Amed Rosario as prospects, what's holding Bo Naylor back, Parker Messick winning Pitcher of the Week in the Carolina League, and the return of Ethan Hankins, including two interviews with Hankins before his start back and following his second start last week.


Subscribe to the Next Year in Cleveland newsletter - https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Watch the podcast on YouTube and subscribe to never miss an episode - https://youtu.be/3jMRb-nrDa8

May 16, 202350:48
Duck Depth

Duck Depth

This week on the Guardians of the Future podcast, we check in on the Double-A Akron RubberDucks.


What does the pitching depth look like in Akron with Gavin Williams up to Double-A?How will Akron replace Williams' innings?

What's with Angel Martinez's slow start and the lack of hitting so far by the prospects on the RubberDucks?

We also review the impressive rookie debuts of Logan Allen and Tanner Bibee, discuss why the Guardians decided to give David Fry a try in their three catcher experiment.

We discuss the return of Ethan Hankins to an affiliate for the first time since 2019, Bryan Lavastida's future now that he cleared waivers.

I also give as many injury updates on guys as I can, talk a little bit about the pitching pipeline looking suspect below Double-A and answer some listener questions.

Make sure you're subscribing to the newsletter - https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

You can watch the podcast as well: https://youtu.be/_LYNevuGWSc

May 02, 202350:07
Checking in On the Clip Show

Checking in On the Clip Show

It was a weird week in Columbus with rainouts and promotions and callups. Logan Allen was called up to make his debut with the Cleveland Guardians Sunday, so on this week's episode, we get into his debut and where's been first.


While talking about the Clippers we also talk about Tanner Bibee's first start where he "struggled" by his standards and what's next for him.


We also get into:- Jhonkensy Noel's slow start and struggles

- David Fry's future

- Brayan Rocchio's brief call-up

- The Touki Toussaint Experiment

- Micah Pries slowing down after a strong start


We also check in on Akron to talk about another dominant start by Gavin Williams, the decision to designate Bryan Lavastida for assignment, Tanner Burns' most recent solid start


At Lake County, also discussed is Juan Brito looking like a good hitter that belongs right away, a live look at Trenton Denholm for the first time, Joe Lampe's hot start and Tyler Thornton's stuff.


In Lynchburg, we talk about their record setting day for stolen bases and their advanced offense.


Subscribe to the newsletter: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/80KA6ZwwrDA

Apr 24, 202351:23
Lowdown from Lynchburg - Hillcats Broadcaster Jason Prill Joins the Guardians of the Future Podcast

Lowdown from Lynchburg - Hillcats Broadcaster Jason Prill Joins the Guardians of the Future Podcast

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Lynchburg Hillcats broadcast Jason Prill joins Justin Lada to talk about the Hillcats mature offense and pitching staff, as well as:

  • Jason's background growing up in Cleveland and becoming the Hillcats broadcaster
  • Nate Furman moving into the leadoff spot, being a sparkplug and leader
  • Wuilfedo Antunez's mature approach
  • Manuel Mejias being the youngest position player at a Guardians affiliate this year so far
  • Guy Lipscomb's chances of an early promotion to Lake County
  • Parker Messick dominating early
  • What to look for coming up in Lynchburg

Jason also sticks around to talk about:

  • Reid Johnston being underrated
  • Will Dion and Trenton Denholm off to good starts in '23
  • Joe Lampe's early season success
  • Yordys Valdes' offensive improvement

Justin also discusses why it's likely you will see Logan Allen and Tanner Bibee before Joey Cantillo in 2023 despite Cantillo being on the 40 man roster, Allen's impressive two start week, Bibee's buzzworthy start, Gavin Williams hitting 101, and which prospects are missing from rosters.

Subscribe to the site/newsletter to get episodes and articles right to your inbox: https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Apr 18, 202301:10:37
Guardians Acquire Steven Hajjar to Complete Will Benson Trade; 2023 Guardians Prospect Predictions

Guardians Acquire Steven Hajjar to Complete Will Benson Trade; 2023 Guardians Prospect Predictions

The Guardians of the Future podcast is back with another epsiode before the start of the minor league season this week! Topics discussed this week:

  • Guardians acquire LHP Steven Hajjar to complete the Will Benson trade with the Reds
  • Tim Herrin and Hunter Gaddis make the opening day roster out of the bullpen
  • Taking your prospect questions
  • My Guardians prospect predictions for 2023


https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/


Mar 28, 202336:59
Disusing Short Term Roles for Guardians Prospects Bo Naylor, Tim Herrin, Joey Cantillo and more.

Disusing Short Term Roles for Guardians Prospects Bo Naylor, Tim Herrin, Joey Cantillo and more.

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, we give the reminder about how Bo Naylor's role was always going to play out in 2023,  how Cleveland might handle the injuries to Sam Hentges and Cody Morris with regards to Tim Herrin's case in the short and long term, what role we could see for Joey Cantillo in 2023. We also look at the possible role for Peyton Battenfield. Some good news on Ethan Hankins and how Micah Pries and Petey Halpin are getting noticed in spring training. And of course an update on prospects playing in the World Baseball Classic.


https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/ 

https://www.mlb.com/guardians/news/cody-morris-may-find-spot-in-guardians-bullpen 

https://www.mlb.com/guardians/news/guardians-prospect-petey-halpin-gets-spring-opportunity 

https://theathletic.com/4281077/2023/03/07/guardians-spring-training-observations/

Mar 13, 202339:59
Chatting with New Lake County Captains Owner Alan Miller

Chatting with New Lake County Captains Owner Alan Miller

On this episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, I'm joined by new Lake County Captains owner Alan Miller to talk about the exciting changes coming to the Captains franchise and Classic Park this season. We talk about what got Alan into baseball, specifically minor league baseball, his history in marketing and working in baseball and sports, as well as some of the cool changes and promotions we'll see at Classic Park in 2023.

I'll also give some spring training thoughts and observations on players making noise right now and some players I think have a chance to be in Lake County this year.


https://www.milb.com/lake-county/tickets/promotions

https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/

Mar 06, 202341:24
More on the Will Benson/Justin Boyd trade, Guardians minor league coaches & prospects in the WBC
Feb 10, 202357:35
Getting to Know 2022 Cleveland Guardians Draft Pick Nate Furman
Feb 03, 202341:50
Fresh Start

Fresh Start

The Guardians of the Future podcast is back. You can now find my Cleveland Guardians minor league coverage over at the newsletter, Next Year in Cleveland (https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com). On the first episode of Guardians of the Future in 2023, I went over some housekeeping items about the podcast and coverage of the Cleveland Guardians farm system at Next Year in Cleveland. Find all about what you can expect from this podcast going forward as well as my writing about the Cleveland Guardians farm system.  


I also put out a call for some prospect questions for the podcast, and we did answer a few of those on the 2022 draft picks, Tanner Bibee, and Chase DeLauter.  


Towards the end, I talked about one of the writing projects I have been working on, which is the prospect report reviews of 2022 Cleveland Guardians that exhausted prospect eligibility last year. The ones that are still in Cleveland are Steven Kwan, Oscar Gonzalez, Richie Palacios and Konnor Pilington (and I will touch on Kirk McCarty). I reviewed my prospect scouting report in March of 2022 on Steven Kwan and what he looks like as a player after 2022 compared to what I thought about him as a prospect last year.  


Again, you can follow the new site account on Twitter @NextYearInCle and you can subscribe (for free) to the newsletter -  https://nextyearincleveland.substack.com/ 


 To anyone who continues to listen, thank you for your patience and support.

Jan 09, 202342:49
Rule 5 40-Man Roster Deadline Day

Rule 5 40-Man Roster Deadline Day

Justin Lada and Willie Hood speculate live about who the Cleveland Guardians will protect from the Rule 5 draft on the roster deadline day, November 15 at 6PM ET.  The guys live react to news of the Carlos Vargas for Ross Carver swap with the Arizona Diamondbacks, and then the other 3 additions of Angel Martinez, Joey Cantillo, and Tim Herrin. The Nolan Jones to Colorado trade for Juan Brito was announced after we finished live recording, so you won't hear that reaction here.

Nov 16, 202201:48:44
Preparing for the Cleveland Guardians 2022 Offseason

Preparing for the Cleveland Guardians 2022 Offseason

The Guardians of the Future podcast is back. Justin Lada and Willie Hood breakdown the Cleveland Guardians 2022/2023 offseason ahead.

  • What moves the Guardians will make to open spots on the 40 man roster
  • A deep, deep dive on the Guardians will protect ahead of the Rule 5 draft and who they won't
  • Talking trade and free agent targets for the Guardians
Nov 08, 202201:34:18
Is the future now?

Is the future now?

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood discuss:


  • Bo Naylor's callup and why now
  • What does Naylor's arrival say about Bryan Lavastida's future?
  • Will Brennan's hot start and his future
  • The shape of the postseason roster
  • And we take a look back at our preseason prospect draft.
Oct 04, 202201:13:13
The kids are division champs

The kids are division champs

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood discuss:

  • The Guardians prospects help lead them to an improbably division title
  • Will Brennan's call-up and future
  • What it means for Nolan Jones and George Valera
  • Playoff roster 
  • Players of the Year in the minors at each level for the Guardians
  • Revisiting our pre-season predictions 
Sep 27, 202201:17:00
Race to the finish

Race to the finish

On this episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood disucss

  • The Guardians delivery of a knockout blow to the Minnesota Twins
  • Cody Morris' future role
  • The future catching tandem
  • How to fit Will Brennan on to the roster
  • Guardians Arizona Fall League 2022 participants
  • Lake County Captains and Lynchburg Hillcats playing for championships. 
Sep 20, 202201:10:02
Making the case

Making the case

On this week’s episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Willie Hood joins Justin Lada to talk about:

  • The Guardians pitching plans to cover Aaron Civale and Zach Plesac’s innings
  • Which pitching prospect should come up to start this week
  • Prospects in the Guardians org impacted by the new rules (shift ban, specifically)
  • Rodney Boone and Will Dion’s arsenal and success
  • Ryan Webb’s late season success
  • Carlos Vargas’ timeline
  • Will Brennan’s 16 hit series and future
Sep 12, 202201:24:10
Eyes have Hill(cats)

Eyes have Hill(cats)

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, IBI/GBI's first Carolina League reporter, Josiah Elmore, joins Justin Lada to discuss:

  • Basically every player who played in Lynchburg this year
  • Will Dion
  • Jack Leftiwch
  • Rodney Boone
  • Jake Fox
  • The bullpen
  • Isaiah Greene
  • Carson Tucker
  • Dayan Frias

We also run through Cody Morris' first start in the majors, Cleveland's pitching plans with Zach Plesac and Aaron Civale down, and other players debuts at new levels.

Sep 06, 202201:09:44
Wake me up before September ends

Wake me up before September ends

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood discuss:

  • An Amed Rosario extension vs. the Guardians shortstop prospect group
  • Promotions of Doug Nikhazy, Will Dion, Angel Genao and Joe Lampe
  • Who will join Cody Morris as a September callup
  • Which Guardians prospects will be playing in the AFL?
  • Minor league is unionizing? Finally!


Aug 30, 202201:12:32
Who's the Captain now?

Who's the Captain now?

On this 8/22/22 episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Will Cunningham (https://twitter.com/willocunningham) joined Justin Lada to talk about:
- The Lake County Captains 2022 season thus far

- Promotions of Johnathan Rodriguez, Angel Martinez and Mason Hickman

- Mason Hickman taking off as a reliever?

- Why Rodriguez>Planez

- Petey Halpin's late season run of success

- What players have stood out for Will this season

- Other moving parts in the Guardians system including Nolan Jones, Richie Palacios and Cody Morris

Aug 23, 202201:18:02
More 'Duck Debuts and News

More 'Duck Debuts and News

This week on the Guardians of the Future podcast, Guardians Baseball Insider's Akron RubberDucks beat reporter John Elrod joins Justin Lada to discuss:

- Debuts of Xzavion Curry and Hunter Gaddis

- George Valera and Johnathan Rodriguez's promotion

- Tanner Bibee's impressive run at Akron

- What they learned about Micah Pries

- The health of Joey Cantillo

- Who might make the next MLB debut for Cleveland

- What will the roster in Cleveland look like a year from now

Aug 15, 202201:05:08
More Debuts, More Decisions

More Debuts, More Decisions

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the future podcast Justin Lada and Willie Hood

- Discuss the promotions of Will Benson, Tyler Freeman and Hunter Gaddis

- How these moves affect the 40 man roster

- How Cody Morris might impact the roster

- Could we see Bo Naylor in Toronto?

- The Framil Reyes decison

- How Joey Cantillo's recent arm troubles make him more attractive in the Rule 5 draft.

- and more...

Aug 09, 202201:20:44
Standing Still or Still Standing?

Standing Still or Still Standing?

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood:

- Record live as the buzzer ticked down on the MLB trading deadline

- Reacted to Cleveland's inactive deadline

- Figuring out how the 40 man roster is going to shape up

- Discuss the callup of Will Benson

- What is the future of Franmil Reyes? 

Aug 03, 202201:29:51
Stay Classy

Stay Classy

On this week's Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood look back at the Cleveland Guardians 2022 draft class, give their favorite picks, their biggest upside and risks, where they rank among the Guardians current prospects and more. 


Here's a link back to the Twitter Spaces Justin and Willie hosted on Night 1 of the MLB draft to talk about Chase DeLauter, Justin Campbell and Parker Messick

https://twitter.com/JL_Baseball/status/1548850629782736896?s=20&t=jE_dMSEZ1CJ3HM0SrPBl0g

Jul 25, 202201:24:17
Call-Ups and Draft Prep

Call-Ups and Draft Prep

On this week's Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood discuss:

  • Alex Call's callup
  • Nolan Jones' debut
  • Columbus' catching situation
  • Some injured arms are returning to affiliates
  • Talking MLB Draft targets for the Cleveland Guardians
Jul 12, 202201:19:08
Roster Roulette

Roster Roulette

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood discuss:

  • Some odd roster moves by the Guardians including Gabriel Arias' recent big league stint
  • Reclaiming Oscar Mercado vs. calling up Alex Call
  • Recent pitching promotions in the minors
  • When we will see Jones, Brennan and Naylor
  • Why trading Amed Rosario is difficult
  • More 2022 MLB draft discussion for the Cleveland Guardians

https://www.gofundme.com/f/lenny-torres-srs-cancer-fight?qid=1aa3426ebc68266b39731ba5cd0d0ea4

Jul 06, 202201:15:05
Playing with the models

Playing with the models

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood of Guardians Baseball Insider discuss

  • The Guardians letdown against the Red Sox over the weekend
  • How things are shaping up for the trading deadline
  • Jhonkensy Noel's promotion to Double-A
  • Micah Pries' hot streak
  • Daniel Espino's health and subsequent prospect ranking
  • Prepping for the Prospects Live 2022 MLB Mock Draft


https://twitter.com/longenhagen/status/1436794462714281985

Jun 27, 202201:21:16
Checking in on the Clip Show

Checking in on the Clip Show

On this week's episode of the Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada is joined by GBI's Columbus Clippers beat writer Megan Husslein (https://twitter.com/meganhusslein) to check in on some of the storylines in Columbus lately. 

- Franmil Reyes' rehab

- The Clippers loaded outfield of Will Brennan, Will Benson, Nolan Jones, and Alex Call

- Tyler Freeman's recent hot streak

- James Karinchak's rehab

- Update on Bryan Lavastida's hamstring injury and Bo Naylor's promotion

- Some arms in Columbus that are struggling and thriving

- Carlos Vargas' return

and some questions...


Jun 21, 202253:15
No more vacations

No more vacations

Justin Lada returns from vacation and is joined by Willie Hood to talk about Will Brennan's recent tear in Columbus, Oscar Gonzalez's hot start in Cleveland, if they're worried about Brayan Rocchio or Tyler Freeman, Jack Leftwich's future, Nolan Jones' return and new swing, and more...

Jun 14, 202201:12:44
So you're telling me there's a chance...

So you're telling me there's a chance...

This week, Justin Lada and Willie Hood discuss:

  • Oscar Gonzalez callup
  • What have we seen so far?
  • What do we expect?
  • Some thoughts promotions
    • Will Brennan to Columbus
    • Kevin Kelly and Tim Herrin to Columbus
      • Robert Broom and Brett Daniels back to Akron
    • Junior Sanquentin to LYN
  • Gavin Williams appears to be OK, on schedule to start Friday
  • Tanner Burns appears to be starting this week
  • George Valera back in lineup tonight
  • Daniel Espino thew a bullpen today, good sign
  • Next set of promotions?
Jun 01, 202201:09:37
Risers and Fallers

Risers and Fallers

Justin Lada and Willie Hood of Guardians Baseball Insider talk about the Player of the Week honored earned by RHP Hunter Gaddis and INF Milan Tolentino at Akron and Lynchburg respectively. They also discuss Jhonkensy Noel in OF, George Valera and Bo Naylor's hot week, more good pitching from Joey Cantillo, the best performers from the 2021 draft class, and a look at risers and fallers in the rankings.

May 24, 202201:14:11
'Ducks on the Pod

'Ducks on the Pod

This week on the Cleveland Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada is joined by GBI's RubberDucks beat report, John Elrod


Some of the topics covered:

Logan T. Allen's good start but a strange start Sunday

Who stands out from the impressive Akron rotation?

Thoughts on the 'Ducks bullpen of Enright, Marman, Herrin and Kelly?

What’s up with the hitting? Geroge Valera and Bo Naylor are drawing walks, but are having a hard time getting the bats going.

Will Brennan's hot start

Injury updates on Espino/Rocchio/Burns

Thoughts on adding Gavin Williams to Akron’s rotation


https://twitter.com/johnelrod_19

https://twitter.com/JL_Baseball

May 16, 202255:49
It's T Logan Allen Now

It's T Logan Allen Now

On this week's Cleveland Guardians of the Future podcast, Justin Lada and Willie Hood discuss:

- The big pitching performances in Cleveland's system this week led by THE Logan Allen, Gavin Williams, Hunter Gaddis, Joey Cantillo and Tanner Bibee

- More injuries to the Guardians prospects including Brayan Rocchio and Tanner Burns

- What Richie Palacios going back to Triple-A means for the Guardians OF, Amed Rosario and Andres Gimenez

- What Bobby Bradley's spot in Triple-A means for Nolan Jones

- Willie Two Bags stays hot

- Your questions

May 09, 202201:08:51
Injuries, Interesting Stats and an Interview with Guardians P prospect Peyton Battenfield

Injuries, Interesting Stats and an Interview with Guardians P prospect Peyton Battenfield

Justin Lada and Willie Hood of Cleveland Guardians Baseball Insider are joined by Cleveland Guardians pitching prospect Peyton Battenfield. We discussed many topics with Peyton, including the baseballs at Triple-A, the pitch clock, how he applies data and metrics in his approach to pitching, what he's working on with his pitches right now, how he spends his free time, and a quick scouting report on a potential Guardians draft prospect pitching at his alma mater (Oklahoma State).


Before the interview, Justin and WIllie also discuss

  • Are we worried about Daniel Espino’s knee injury
  • Impact of Gabriel Arias’ injury
  • Tyler Freeman is back
  • Oscar Gonzalez keeps crushing
  • Interesting starts by Milan Tolentino, Jake Fox, Marcos Gonzalez, Will Benson
  • Hunter Gaddis is crushing it
  • Gavin Williams/Doug Nikhazy starts over the weekend
  • GBI and NorthSide Bound's 2022 MLB Mock Draft

https://guardiansbaseballinsider.com/2022/05/03/2022-gbi-mock-draft-version-1-part-1/

https://northsidebound.com/2022/05/03/two-heads-are-better-than-one-a-collaborative-mock-draft/

https://guardiansbaseballinsider.com/2022/05/03/justinside-baseball-5-3-22-daniel-espinos-dominance-and-injury-logan-t-allens-new-pitch-jake-fox-in-cf-and-more-%ef%bf%bc/


May 03, 202201:13:39