For years, the Cleveland Guardians have failed to keep up with other power-hitting teams.
They’ve never been known for their ability to hit home runs, and while that’s not the only way to get on the scoreboard, it has hurt them at times.
That’s why the front office seems determined to change that, and they’re doing it one MLB Draft at a time.
Taking Chase DeLauter in the 2022 MLB Draft may have been the first building block.
Now, with their decision to select Jace LaViolette, who stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 230 pounds, in the 2025 MLB Draft, the Guardians are making a statement.
“The message from the draft is clear: The Guardians are tired of being known as a team that can’t hit the ball out of the ballpark. They’re building a future lineup that will bring power to Progressive Field — and opponents should take notice,” per the Cleveland Baseball Talk Podcast.
The Guardians used four of their first five draft picks on potential sluggers.
Dean Curley is 6-foot-3, 218 pounds; Aaron Walton is also 6-foot-3, 218 pounds, and Nolan Schubart is 6-foot-5 and 223 pounds.
They’re all physical specimens with the potential to hit the ball a long way.
The Guardians in the past used picks on middle infielders with a feel for contact and defense, but they’re now trying to add power and swagger on the corners.
Of course, it’s worth noting that it will be at least a couple of years before any of these prospects is ready to make an impact in the majors.
But the Guardians are finally trying to head in a different direction.
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