The Fifth Starter Battle: Guardians' Spring Training Questions Begin

With pitchers and catchers having reported earlier this week and full squad workouts beginning soon, the 2025 baseball season is taking shape. For the Guardians, one big question looms over camp: who's getting that fifth starter spot?

The first four rotation spots seem to be set. Tanner Bibee leads the way, followed by Gavin Williams, Ben Lively, and Luis Ortiz. Ortiz, acquired from the Pirates in December as part of a series of moves that began with the Andrés Giménez trade, brings some serious upside. The 25-year-old posted career bests in wins, strikeouts (107), and innings pitched (135 2/3) last season.

Triston McKenzie might be the favorite for the fifth spot, if he can stay healthy and return to his 2022 form. After a rough 2024, the Guardians are giving him another shot. But he's got competition. Logan Allen has earned consideration after making 44 starts over the last two seasons. Joey Cantillo made a solid debut in 2024 and wants his chance. And don't sleep on Slade Cecconi, who arrived from Arizona in the Josh Naylor trade this past December. The 25-year-old right-hander showed promise with the Diamondbacks last year, and now he's getting his shot at the rotation.

The Guardians are known for their excellence in developing pitchers, and their next wave is nearly ready. Parker Messick put together an incredible 2024 campaign, posting a 2.83 ERA with an impressive 30.2% strikeout rate across High-A and Double-A. Doug Nikhazy, who reached Triple-A midway through last season, gives the team another intriguing left-handed option. Both could see Cleveland this year if injuries strike or spot starts are needed.

The depth doesn't stop there. Both Vince Velasquez, who missed all of 2024 due to injury, and Kolby Allard signed minor league deals with invitations to spring training. Jakob Junis also joined the mix this week on a $4.5 million major league deal, giving the Guardians even more options to sort through.

Over the next five weeks, the competition will surely heat up in the desert. Regardless of who wins the fifth spot to start the season, all of these pitchers will likely play a role in the Guardians' postseason hopes.

Next week, I'll dive into the second base competition, but for now, all eyes are on the mound. Let me know in the comments who you think will win the fifth starter job.

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