Look: The Guardians Era In Cleveland Is Off To A Rough Start

On Friday, the recently re-named Cleveland Guardians opened up their team store, stocking the shelves with newly-branded merchandise.

This opening marked the start of the new Guardians era in Cleveland. But earlier today, this new beginning was marred by an ominous sign — literally.

The Guardians sign at the front of the team shop has broken off the wall.

This isn’t the first rough patch the MLB franchise has hit in the midst of its transition. The baseball Cleveland Guardians were sued by a local roller derby team of the same name earlier this month. On Tuesday, both teams announced that they’d reach a settlement and will both operate under the same name.

The name change came in response to heavy controversy over the Chief Wahoo mascot and previous “Cleveland Indians” name.

Merchandise in the team store features a new font, new logos and the team’s new name. The idea for the name was sparked by the 43-foot “Guardians of Traffic” statues that have stood on the Hope Memorial Bridge for more than 100 years.

As the team with the MLB’s longest championship drought, this new branding could have been a fresh start for the organization. But with the way things are going right now, it looks like those struggles may continue under the new Cleveland Guardians name.

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