Guardians Rookie Shines with Historic Two-Homer Debut Performance
Chase DeLauter electrified opening day at T-Mobile Park on March 26, 2026. The 24-year-old Cleveland outfielder hit two home runs in his regular-season debut. The Guardians beat the Seattle Mariners 6-4.
Historic start
DeLauter became one of only a handful of players to hit two homers in a regular-season debut. He also joined the small group of Cleveland players to homer in their first career regular-season at-bat. The franchise had not seen that feat since Jhonkensy Noel on June 26, 2024.
How the homers came
In the first inning, DeLauter drove an 85-mph slider from Logan Gilbert 358 feet over the right-field wall. That solo shot gave Cleveland a 1-0 lead.
His second blast arrived in the ninth inning. He crushed a cutter from reliever Cooper Criswell 422 feet into right-center. The run provided key insurance in the 6-4 victory.
Box score and lines
- Final score: Guardians 6, Mariners 4.
- DeLauter: 3-for-5, two home runs.
- Tied team lead in hits with veteran Rhys Hoskins.
- Guardians record: 1-0. Mariners record: 0-1.
Context and background
DeLauter had his first big-league action last fall in an American League Wild Card Series. He has played only 138 games in three seasons within the organization. Injuries limited his workload prior to this season.
He remains an advanced prospect within the Guardians system. The club has high hopes after his fast impact on opening day.
Teammate and staff reaction
Reliever Erik Sabrowski praised DeLauter’s talent with a colorful comment. Veteran Rhys Hoskins noted DeLauter’s calm approach in a charged stadium. DeLauter said he was thrilled to be available and excited to play meaningful baseball again.
Next game
Cleveland returns to T-Mobile Park to face Seattle again Friday. First pitch is scheduled for 9:45 p.m. ET. The Guardians will look to build on the momentum from this debut.
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