Chase DeLauter's Historic Multi-Homer MLB Debut
Cleveland Guardians player Chase DeLauter achieved a multi-home run game in his first regular-season Major League Baseball appearance. He became the fifth player in franchise history to hit a home run in his initial at-bat, and subsequently hit a second home run in the ninth inning.
This performance establishes DeLauter as the first player in the franchise's 126-year history and the seventh player in major-league history to commence his career with a multi-homer game. Reliever Erik Sabrowski referred to DeLauter's effort as "otherworldly."
Erik Sabrowski referred to DeLauter's effort as "otherworldly."
Background and Pre-Season Experience
DeLauter previously participated in a big-league postseason game the prior fall, becoming the sixth player in league history to do so. However, postseason statistics do not contribute to career totals, making Thursday's games his official regular-season debut. This prior experience reportedly contributed to his comfort during the regular-season debut.
The Guardians had included DeLauter on their playoff roster after his recovery from a broken hamate bone, despite his lack of game appearances for three months. Manager Stephen Vogt noted DeLauter's readiness for an elimination game debut, even prior to his official regular-season bow.
Career Context and Health Management
DeLauter, 24, recorded three hits in five at-bats during his debut, which included the two home runs and a single. He also scored from first base following a double.
His professional career has involved several health challenges. Over three seasons, he has played in only 138 minor-league games due to issues such as core muscle surgery, a broken hamate, and recurring foot problems. The Guardians intend to manage his workload by utilizing him at designated hitter and right field, along with scheduled days off, to maintain his fitness throughout the 2026 season.
Veteran slugger Rhys Hoskins commented on DeLauter's composure:
"I think the coolest part is he’s not afraid of the moment."