Two-time American League Manager of the Year Award winner Stephen Vogt led the Cleveland Guardians to the American League Championship Series this year. Cleveland fell two victories short of reaching the Fall Classic, however. Vogt remains under contract with the Guardians, but rumors have connected him to the Seattle Mariners' job opening. The Guards manager shut down the rumors while speaking to reporters on Thursday, via Tim Stebbins of MLB.com.

“I'll be in Cleveland. I'm here. I'm coming back,” Vogt told reporters.

It never seemed like the Guardians would fire Vogt. While some of his postseason decisions were questioned this year, the reality of the situation is that Vogt has led the Guardians to the ALCS in two of his three seasons as manager. He's done a respectable job to say the least.

If Vogt expressed a desire to join the Mariners, perhaps the Guardians would consider a rare managerial trade. Vogt would be closer to his family if he managed in Seattle as opposed to Cleveland. With that being said, Vogt made it clear on Thursday that he plans to return to the Guardians next year.

Article Continues Below

Returning to the Guards makes sense. Cleveland has been a consistent contender under Vogt. They are a few pieces away from becoming a legitimate World Series threat. Cleveland's core features serious upside. Vogt could realistically lead this ball club to the Fall Classic sooner rather than later.

Perhaps someday he will consider the Mariners if the opportunity presents itself, but for now, Stephen Vogt seems to be all in on managing the Guardians.