Chase DeLauter embraces hot start as Guardians host Cubs

Cleveland Guardians rookie Chase DeLauter will make his fourth career appearance at Progressive Field on Saturday night when the Chicago Cubs continue their three-game set in Cleveland. The 23-year-old outfielder has already tasted October baseball in front of the home crowd, debuting in the 2025 American League Wild Card Series and appearing in two of the club’s three postseason contests on the lakefront.

DeLauter’s first three home dates produced a combined 4-for-11 ledger with a double, a triple, and four RBIs, underscoring why the Guardians fast-tracked the 2023 first-round pick to the majors. The left-handed slugger’s ability to drive the ball to all fields has translated immediately to the big-league stage, and the organization believes his calm approach in high-leverage moments bodes well for the remainder of the season.

Saturday’s matchup pits DeLauter against Cubs southpaw Shota Imanaga, giving the rookie his first look at the veteran’s deceptive four-pitch mix. Cleveland hopes DeLauter’s early success against left-handed pitching—he is 2-for-5 with a walk in the split so far—will continue as the club looks to secure a series win over the National League Central visitors.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. ET.