Cleveland Guardians’ Coaching Changes Impact Future Success

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Guardians face significant changes in their coaching staff as the 2026 season approaches. Notably, Craig Albernaz, the associate manager, is set to become the next manager of the Baltimore Orioles. This development follows reports that Albernaz was a top candidate and that a deal is nearly finalized.

Albernaz, 42, has spent the last two seasons helping the Guardians reach the postseason. A native of Fall River, Massachusetts, he played nine seasons in the minor leagues before transitioning to coaching in 2015. His leadership was instrumental in Cleveland’s success in 2025, particularly in overcoming a significant deficit to claim the AL Central Division title.

Cleveland’s president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti expressed pride in the coaching staff’s performance, stating, “We believe we’ve assembled an extraordinary group of coaches that are well-regarded within the industry.” Antonetti’s comments came after the Guardians’ postseason exit, highlighting the organization’s strong coaching development.

While Albernaz departs, Cleveland will retain pitching coach Carl Willis for the 2026 season. Willis has been credited as a key figure in the team’s pitching success, guiding young pitchers and helping the team manage injuries effectively. He was praised for his ability to maximize the potential of Cleveland’s starting rotation.

The Guardians’ pitching unit demonstrated remarkable durability in 2025, leading the American League in innings pitched. According to Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Baseball Talk podcast, the rotation produced consistent results, enabling the team to rally from setbacks. “They found ways to get one or two more innings out of each starter and that helped them win games,” he noted.

As the Guardians navigate these changes, the focus will be on how manager Stephen Vogt adapts without his core coaching partners. Vogt will need to establish new relationships within the coaching staff while continuing the team’s momentum.

Joe Noga, a veteran sports journalist, emphasized the role of continuity in Cleveland’s coaching, stating, “Willis represents critical stability as the Guardians navigate coaching changes.” This stability could be vital as the organization aims for not just a return to the postseason but a championship run in the future.