Guardians Report Uncertain Status for ALDS Opener
Manager Stephen Vogt has not cleared Rhys Hoskins or Colin Holderman to return for the start of the postseason.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Baseball
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Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt reported that the availability of Rhys Hoskins and Colin Holderman remains undecided for the upcoming ALDS opener. Neither player has received full medical clearance ahead of the series.
Why it matters
The team must solidify its roster before the series begins at Progressive Field this Saturday. Securing these key players would significantly bolster the No. 2 seed as they enter the postseason.
Rhys Hoskins hit .179 with 13 home runs in 95 games, while Colin Holderman recorded a 2.73 ERA and 1.04 WHIP across 54 appearances this season.
The players
Stephen Vogt
Stephen Vogt is the manager of the Cleveland Guardians who oversees roster management and player health updates.
Rhys Hoskins
Rhys Hoskins is a professional baseball player for the Cleveland Guardians currently dealing with lower back inflammation.
Colin Holderman
Colin Holderman is a pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians who has been sidelined with right wrist inflammation.
The details
Rhys Hoskins has been managing lower back inflammation since August, though he began a swing progression on September 12. Colin Holderman is recovering from right wrist inflammation after receiving an injection on September 19 following a failed rehab outing in Columbus.
Timeline
August 2026: Hoskins experienced the onset of back inflammation.
September 12, 2026: Hoskins commenced a swing progression.
September 17, 2026: Holderman attempted a rehab outing in Columbus.
September 19, 2026: Holderman received a wrist injection.
October 3, 2026: The ALDS opener is scheduled at Progressive Field.
Season Trajectory
As the American League No. 2 seed, the Guardians are focused on ensuring their roster is at full strength to maintain their competitive advantage during the ALDS. This roster uncertainty directly impacts the team's ability to set their optimal pitching and hitting lineup for the postseason.
The absence of Colin Holderman would require the bullpen to rely on remaining relievers for the 52 2/3 innings he contributed during the regular season. Rhys Hoskins' availability directly dictates the power depth available for the Guardians' lineup in the postseason.
The takeaway
Postseason success often hinges on the ability to manage player health through the final weeks of the regular season. Monitoring the progress of injured players remains the most critical factor for front offices as they prepare for high-stakes playoff series.
What happens next
The Cleveland Guardians are required to finalize and submit their official postseason roster before the ALDS series begins on Saturday.
Further reading
For more news on the team, visit the Cleveland Baseball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ClutchPoints.
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