The Guardians’ offensive production (or lack thereof in many cases) is a major storyline from the first half of the 2025 season. With the All-Star break in the rearview mirror, here is a look back at three unexpected pleasant surprises at the plate from Cleveland’s first 95 games and three disappointing results that helped contribute to the lineup’s struggles overall.

And in a prediction from Zack Meisel of The Athletic, the Guardians do move Clase. But, there's a major caveat to Miesel's prediction: Clase isn't moved until the offseason. "There's a horde of contenders desperately trying to convince Cleveland to move him - and odds are, they will - just not quite yet."

BOTTOM LINE: The Cleveland Guardians host the Athletics looking to stop their seven-game home skid. Cleveland is 20-23 at home and 46-49 overall. The Guardians are 30-9 in games when they have more hits than their opponents.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - In a season where the Guardians find themselves underwater at 46-49 heading out of the All-Star break, finding reasons for optimism requires some digging. But during the latest “Terry’s Talkin’” podcast, cleveland.com columnist Terry Pluto didn’t hesitate when asked about his biggest pleasant surprise of the season.

John Harper of SNY and Randy Miller of NJ Advance Media for NJ.com suggested during the All-Star break that the Cleveland Guardians could make closer Emmanuel Clase available ahead of the July 31 trade deadline. On Friday, MLB insider Buster Olney of ESPN addressed the Guardians' plans for the rest of July.