Angel Martinez is one of the most interesting players on the Cleveland Guardiansâ roster.
He has an overall tremendous track record in the minor leagues, is still super young, and is one of the most versatile players on the roster, but hasnât quite impressed enough to prove he deserves a starting spot in the lineup next season.
With Chase DeLauter, George Valera, and CJ Katfus in line to get more playing time in the outfield next season, and Travis Bazzana on the precipice of his big-league debut, Martinezâs role with the Guardians is up in the air for the 2026 season.
Looking at how Clevelandâs roster is right now, what could the Guardiansâ plans be with Martinez for the 2026 season?
Martinezâs Potential Role With Guardians In 2026
Despite some underwhelming numbers at the plate, Martinez could still have a vital role on the level and roster next season as a utility player and a platoon bat for the Guardians.
Stephen Vogt has repeatedly stated that versatility creates more opportunities for players, and Martinez is among the most adaptable on the roster.
In 2025, the 23-year-old appeared in all three outfield positions and also played 37 games at second base. Having a player who can jump between the outfield and the infield could make late-game substitutions much easier.
No, Martinezâs overall slash line doesnât look great, but he did have success against left-handed pitching. The switch-hitter had a .279/.349/.442 slashline with a .791 OPS against southpaws in 2025.
Considering Clevelandâs overall struggles against left-handed pitching, those numbers alone could earn Martinez a roster spot.
On top of being a versatile player, there likely could be a utility role in store for Martinez, but his days of having 195 plate appearances as the second hitter in Clevelandâs lineup are likely over.
Guardians Shouldnât Give Up On Martinez Yet
Martinezâs overall numbers werenât great in 2025. He recorded a slash line of .224/.269/.359 with a strikeout rate of 22.7 percent and a chase rate of 39 percent.
Still, itâs important to remember heâs only 23 and has just 653 plate appearances under his belt. Typically, around 1,000 plate appearances is when we get a great idea of who the player is.
If Martinz makes the team as a utility player, there should still be an opportunity for him to develop.
