Guardians Make Shocking Decision As They Establish Opening Day Roster

The Cleveland Guardians finalize Opening Day roster.

The Cleveland Guardians have their roster for the start of the 2023 season, unless any unforeseen moves, signings, or trades happen. The team will be very similar to the way it ended last season, with some minor adjustments. 

This is the squad that the Guardians will have as they start the season against the Mariners. 

Infielders 

• Josh Bell
• Josh Naylor
• Andres Gimenez
• Amed Rosario
• Jose Ramirez
• Gabriel Arias

Outfielders

• Steven Kwan
• Myles Straw
• Oscar Gonzalez
• Will Brennan

Catchers

• Mike Zunino
• Cam Gallagher
• Meibrys Viloria

Starters

• Shane Bieber
• Triston McKenzie
• Cal Quantrill
• Aaron Civale
• Zach Plesac

Relievers

• Emmanuel Clase
• James Karinchak
• Trevor Stephan
• Enyel De Los Santos
• Nick Sandlin
• Eli Morgan
• Hunter Gaddis
• Tim Herrin

The real shocker here is that the team opted to carry three catchers instead of just two and added another outfielder. However, there's a method to the madness. 

The Guardians reportedly hope that by carrying three catchers, they'll be able to have more pinch-hitting flexibility. This will allow Brennan and Arias to each get more plate appearances.

If this is the case, then I think it's genius and am all for it.

The last two names who were fighting for a playoff spot were Richie Palacios and Roman Quinn. Palacios was optioned to Triple-A and Quinn was reassigned to minor league camp. However, Quinn's contract allows him to sign with another team if given a 40-man roster spot. 

There's always a chance that minor moves are made, but for now, this is it. This will be the team that will take on the Seattle Mariners to start the season on Thursday night at 10:10 EST. 

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Read More:

Questions Still Remain On The Guardians Roster

Guardians May Have Avoided Major Injury Scare

Cleveland Finalizes Their Bullpen Ahead Of Opening Day

Guardians Sign Veteran Pitcher To Minor League Deal

Josh Bell Gives the Guardians Early Lead Over Giants With Massive Home Run

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Cover Photo Credit: © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports