The Cleveland Guardians had three members of their roster finish inside the top ten of the American League Rookie of the Year vote. Parker Messick, who blossomed into an ace this season, was second behind Kevin McGonigle, while Chase DeLauter was sixth and Travis Bazzana ranked 10th.
Are there any members of the organization with a chance of earning votes next year? Well, there’s always a chance with the Guardians! These two hitters could get some consideration for the prestigious award.
Ralphy Velazquez
Velazquez, the Guardians’ 2023 first-rounder, had an amazing season in the upper minors and showed the world that he’s ready to take the next step in his development. That step is, of course, getting the call to the majors.
This year, the Guardians opted to trade for Nathaniel Lowe and leave Velazquez in Triple-A, fearing that calling him up would have prevented him from getting minor league time next year if there’s a lockout. Lowe, however, is now a free agent, somewhat freeing up a space for the young slugger.
His performance this season was certainly there to see. Between Double-A and Triple-A, the sweet-swinging lefty slashed a cool .290/.379/.548 with 29 home runs, 93 RBI, and a 142 wRC+.
All he needs is an extended chance to get used to MLB pitching, make adjustments, and take off. If he gets enough playing time, he can definitely get some AL Rookie of the Year love in 2027.
Cooper Ingle
Most Guardians fans have a bad impression of Cooper Ingle after his brief seven-game cameo in 2027. He hit a meager .095/.208/.095, posted a -6 wRC+ in 24 plate appearances, and was optioned to the minors. He also committed a costly blunder on the field.
It would be incredibly unfair to judge a young player over a seven-game cameo, though. In fact, it would be organizational malpractice. Thankfully, the Guardians know better.
Whether at left field, catcher, or the designated hitter spot, Ingle will get chances to impress in 2027, especially if Austin Hedges departs. Of course, it will be up to him to take advantage of those opportunities.
Ingle’s defensive home is a mystery at this point, but there’s no question about his bat. And if he can be a comfortably above-average hitter, the Guardians will find him at-bats because they need all the offense they can get.
In 104 games and 473 plate appearances, Ingle slashed a phenomenal .297/.424/.528 with 20 home runs and a 151 wRC+ in Triple-A. He has the whole package as a hitter: contact, power, and excellent plate discipline. We are not saying he is an AL ROY favorite next year, but there’s a universe in which he gets some votes.
NEXT: Parker Messick Reflects On His Spectacular Rookie Season
