Guardians Prospect Daniel Espino Returns to Game Action After Multi-Year Injury Battle

Cleveland Guardians pitching prospect Daniel Espino is set to make his first game appearance since 2022 this weekend, marking a significant comeback after multiple right shoulder surgeries. The 24-year-old, once ranked as the Guardians' No. 2 prospect and No. 53 overall in 2022, endured operations in May 2023 and Spring Training 2024 to repair his capsule and rotator cuff. Espino spent the bulk of 2025 building up at the Guardians’ player development complex in Goodyear, Ariz., and recently transitioned to Columbus. He is also slated to play in the Arizona Fall League, beginning October 6, as he continues his progression back to elite form. Before his injuries sidetracked him, Espino showcased a four-seam fastball touching 103 mph and a mid-80s power slider, posting a 2.45 ERA with 35 strikeouts and four walks in 18 1/3 Double-A innings over four starts in 2022.