The Cleveland Guardians pitching staff could get even better when looking at the farm system.
The Cleveland Guardians’ pitching staff has been the rock of the 2026 season so far, but it could get even better. Looking down into Cleveland’s farm system, there is a group of pitchers who could help the Guardians right now, or at some point this season.
Franco Aleman
Franco Aleman had a cup of coffee with the Guardians big-league roster earlier this season, but was quickly optioned back down to Triple-A after just two appearances.
Why he isn’t back with Cleveland remains a mystery. He has the potential to be a high-leverage option for the Guardians, especially with Erik Sabrowski on the injured list.
Aleman has a 0.45 ERA and a 0.70 WHIP with the Clippers so far in 2026. Since he was optioned back down, the 25-year-old has a strikeout rate of 32.3 percent and a whiff rate of 31.7 percent.
The question with Aleman shouldn’t be if he’ll find himself back with the Guardians, but when?
May 10, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Franco Aleman (55) throws a pitch during the seventh inning against the Minnesota Twins at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn ImagesAndrew Walters
If the Guardians are searching for some more punch-outs from their bullpen, Andrew Walters could be the perfect solution.
He’s already proven his stuff plays at the big-league level back in 2024, and he owns a strikeout rate of 38.2 percent so far this season at Triple-A.
Walters did get injured at the beginning of 2025 and got sick, which kept him out for part of the 2026 season, but once the team feels he’s ready, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be a member of the big-league bullpen.
Austin Peterson
Up to this point, the Guardians have only used five starters during the 2026 season. The rotation has been on a consistent run, but at some point, Cleveland may be forced to use another pitcher to start a game.
When that reality inevitably happens, Austin Petereson could be an option to make a start for the big-league team.
Peterson had a delayed start to the season due to an injury, but he’s looked strong upon his return. In seven starts this season, he owns a 4.34 ERA and a 1.45 WHIP, along with showing some strong command, too. He has a 24.8 percent strikeout rate and a 10.1 percent walk rate.
The Guardians may not need Peterson’s services yet, but they likely will at some point this season.
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