And one of these things is a much bigger deal
Lane Thomas did not play today because he’s dealing with planta fascitis:
Lane Thomas is dealing with plantar fasciitis in his right foot. He’s getting looked at today.
— Tim Stebbins (@tim_stebbins) May 28, 2025
Steven Kwan was removed from the game today because of wrist inflammation:
Steven Kwan exited with right wrist inflammation.
— Tim Stebbins (@tim_stebbins) May 28, 2025
Now, Vogt said he expects Kwan will be back on Friday and that Thomas was available off the bench but they wanted to avoid him today.
IF an injured list stint is required, the Guardians will be looking to Columbus for outfield help where they currently find:
CJ Kayfus, left-handed hitting first baseman turned left/right fielder (the defense will be a growth process). He has a 179 wRC+. He will need a 40-man spot (Ben Lively to the 60-Day?).
Johnathan Rodriguez, right-handed hitting right fielder/DH (his defense is very poor). He has a 131 wRC+ and is on the 40-man roster.
Petey Halpin, left-handed hitting centerfielder. 122 wRC+ (but with a .406 batting average on balls in play).
Chase DeLauter, left-handed hitting right fielder. 139 wRC+, but still getting back from leg injuries and demonstrating he can stay healthy.
Additionally, George Valera is currently in the Arizona Complex league, but should be nearing a return to Columbus and may make himself an option in the near future.
My guess is that if IL stints are needed, we will see on Friday Kayfus added to the roster and Halpin promoted if needed. David Fry may take Noel’s spot on the roster as well.
Now, nightmare scenario would be the Guardians moving Schneemann to the outfield and bringing Rocchio back from Columbus, which is certainly in play. At the very least, we would still see one of Kayfus or Halpin promoted, I think.
Interesting times in Cleveland. The length and severity of Kwan’s injury may have a lot to say about the outcome of the 2025 season, so I hope he is indeed back on Friday. But, for now, this will likely be a chance for some well-performing young bats to make a statement.