Guardians optimistic Chase DeLauter can avoid injured list as wrist continues to improve

GuardiansChase DeLauter, Cleveland Guardians.(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)BALTIMORE — The Guardians remain optimistic Chase DeLauter can avoid the injured list, but manager Stephen Vogt said the rookie outfielder is still day to day with the right wrist issue that has kept him out of the lineup for four straight games. “He had a better day yesterday. Hoping for a better one today,” Vogt said. “We’re optimistic he can be back in there soon.” DeLauter, who is batting .294 with an .823 OPS, 13 home runs and 60 RBI, has been one of Cleveland’s hottest hitters, batting .394 (26-for-66) over his last 17 games and .363 in August. Cleveland Guardians, Baltimore Orioles starting lineups for Sept. 8, 2026: Game No. 146Doug Eddings made a rookie’s tilted cap all about himself — and he should be called out for itThe Guardians are chasing playoffs on two fronts, and they need help from the lineupVogt said DeLauter’s wrist bothers him more when swinging than playing the outfield, and the Guardians do not want to rush him back with the postseason race entering its final weeks. “It’s not like he just felt some soreness. I mean, it’s been a couple days,” Vogt said. “There’s something real there. We have to make sure that we don’t bring him back too soon and make it worse.” DeLauter was scheduled to go through his pregame work Tuesday before the club determined whether he could be available off the bench. “He’s trending really well and just not quite over the hump yet,” Vogt said. Meanwhile, first baseman Rhys Hoskins is beginning to progress into baseball activities as he works his way back from lower back inflammation. Hoskins has been on the 10-day injured list since Aug. 19 and has missed 19 games, with Cleveland going 12-7 in his absence. “He’s feeling better each day,” Vogt said. Asked whether there is still enough time for Hoskins to return this season, Vogt said, “We’re hoping so. Again, we got to get him to the point where he feels like he’s ready to go play, and we’re not there yet.”Joe Noga has more than 25 years experience in Cleveland sports media with time spent covering Browns, Cavaliers and Indians/Guardians, as well as local high school and college sports and athletes. He covered a...