The Cleveland Guardians have more than enough talent in the middle of the infield.
Gabriel Arias and Brayan Rocchio are outstanding defenders, and while the offense hasn’t always been there, they’ve both proven that they can be trusted in big moments.
There have been plenty of discussions regarding Rocchio’s future with the team.
He was supposed to play at shortstop, but he was sent back to Triple-A Columbus and has played mostly second base ever since.
Still, Stephen Vogt trusts him anywhere.
When asked about the youngster, the Guardians’ manager gushed about his defensive versatility:
“He’s a Gold Glove-caliber defender,” manager Stephen Vogt said of Rocchio. “It’s not easy to move positions, but if anybody can, it’s him”
Notably, that positional versatility might be crucial for him and his future with the Guardians.
Former No. 1 pick Travis Bazzana is firmly expected to make his way to the majors next season, even if it’s not at the beginning of the year.
He’s penciled in as the second baseman of the future and, barring a shocking turn of events, that’s not going to change for a long time.
As such, Rocchio will have to compete with Arias to be the everyday shortstop.
Arias has the edge at the plate, but Rocchio’s stellar defensive skills could tilt the scales in his favor.
Whatever the case, one thing’s for sure: This team has options.
That’s the best type of problem any coach or manager could have.
Hopefully, he will take a leap forward at the plate in the final stretch of the season, as this team needs as much help as they can get to make the playoffs.
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