The Cleveland Guardians currently sit second in the AL Central with a 56-52 record, just one game back in the AL Wild Card race. With the expanded 2022 MLB playoff format featuring three Wild Card spots, their postseason chances remain viable through multiple paths.

The Guardians' offense has been average, posting a .699 OPS with 86 home runs. All-Star third baseman Jose Ramirez leads the charge with 21 home runs, 87 RBI, and 14 stolen bases. The recent DFA of struggling Franmil Reyes opens opportunities for younger outfielders.

Their pitching staff maintains a solid 3.90 team ERA through 108 games. The rotation features reliable arms in Shane Bieber, Aaron Civale, Zach Plesac, Cal Quantrill, and Triston McKenzie. The bullpen ranks eighth in MLB with a 3.41 ERA, anchored by dominant closer Emmanuel Clase (24 saves, 1.36 ERA).

Playoff Outlook:

• Best path: Win AL Central division
• Main competition: Minnesota Twins (improved at trade deadline) and surging Chicago White Sox
• Wild Card chances depend on potential collapses from Baltimore, Tampa Bay, or Toronto

While the Guardians have performed well, they'll likely finish third in the division behind Minnesota and Chicago. Their best hope for a playoff berth lies in securing one of the final Wild Card spots, though they'll need help from other teams faltering down the stretch.

The team made no significant moves at the trade deadline, choosing to compete with their current roster. While a playoff appearance remains possible, they face an uphill battle in a competitive American League race.

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