The Cleveland Guardians are the Major League Baseball franchise based in Cleveland, Ohio, playing in the American League, Central division. Founded in 1901, the organization has witnessed historic moments in North American baseball and remains a reference point in the Midwest, with its home at Progressive Field.
| Name | Cleveland Guardians |
| League | Major League Baseball |
| Division | American League · Central |
| City | Cleveland |
| Ballpark | Progressive Field |
| Founded | 1901 |
| Record | 54-48 (.529) |
History
The Guardians were born in 1901 as part of the inaugural American League. Through their early decades, the team was known as the Blues and later the Naps, in honor of Napoleón Lajoie, one of their first superstars. The name evolved to Indians in 1915, an identity they kept for more than a century until the change to Guardians in 2021, reflecting a turn in the franchise’s identity.
Cleveland enjoyed its golden era in the 1990s and 2000s, when it became a divisional powerhouse with players like Omar Vizquel and Jim Thome. The team reached the World Series in 1995 and 1997, establishing itself as a constant contender in the Central division and building a passionate fan base that remains one of the most loyal in the Major Leagues.
Titles and honors
The Guardians won the 1948 World Series, the only championship in franchise history. That team, led by Bob Feller and other talents, defeated the Boston Braves in a series still remembered as one of Cleveland’s most glorious moments. They have also won multiple division titles, especially during their competitive run in the 1990s and 2000s.
Current season
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Season | 2026 (in progress) |
| Record | 54-48 |
| PCT | .529 |
| Standing | #2 in American League · Central |
| Games back | – |
| Streak | W2 |
Key players
Among Cleveland’s historic idols, Bob Feller stands out, a legendary pitcher who spent his entire career with the Indians and is regarded as one of the greatest hurlers of all time. Jim Thome is another monumental figure, a power hitter who carried the team to the World Series in the ’90s. Omar Vizquel, a shortstop with flawless defense, was the face of that winning era.
Today, José Ramírez is the team’s undisputed star, a versatile third baseman and elite hitter who has been the backbone of the Guardians in recent years. Alongside young prospects like Brayan Rocchio and Chase DeLauter, the team is looking to build a new winning cycle.
Roster players with a profile on Beisbol Love
Did you know?
The change to Guardians in 2021 was a historic moment for the franchise, dropping a nickname it had carried for more than 100 years. The new name refers to the eight limestone guardians that watched over Cleveland’s old stadium, a connection to local history that resonated with the community. The change also reflected Major League Baseball’s broader move toward more inclusive identities.
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