The Cleveland Guardians rely on bringing players up through their system and having them fill necessary roles once they get to the majors. It is a strategy that has served them well, as they have been a perennial contender in the AL Central over the past decade.
This season will be no exception, as the Guardians believe prospects George Valera and Chase DeLauter are ready to take over in the outfield. In addition, Travis Bazzana, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, is in line to make his debut at second base.
Though that is impressive, it’s also not all fans have to look forward to, as another young Guardians infielder has landed on a notable list of first baseman prospects, with Ralphy Velazquez projected to arrive next year.
“The Top 10 (ETA): 1. Sal Stewart, Reds (2026), 2. Bryce Eldridge, Giants (2026), 3. Charlie Condon, Rockies (2026), 4. Ralphy Velazquez, Guardians (2027), 5. Ryan Clifford, Mets (2026), 6. Cam Collier, Reds (2027), 7. Jonathon Long, Cubs (2026), 8. Luke Adams, Brewers (2026), 9. Xavier Isaac, Rays (2027), 10. Tre’ Morgan, Rays (2026),” Sam Dykstra wrote.
The 20-year-old is ranked as Cleveland’s No. 9 overall prospect by MLB.com. However, the fact that he plays first base may not fit perfectly within the Guardians’ future lineup.
Current first baseman Kyle Manzardo hit 27 home runs last year in just his second MLB season. He is a vital power bat on a team that is lacking in that area, and he has shown the desire to improve this offseason.
However, Velazquez may be too good to keep in the minors for long. A first-round pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, he advanced to Double-A last season, and combined with his time in Single-A, he hit 22 home runs with 85 RBIs and an OPS of .839.
With C.J. Kayfus as another young player in the mix, this could turn out to be a good problem for the Guardians, as a team can never have enough talent, especially one that is searching for more offense. Kayfus has also played the outfield, and manager Stephen Vogt can use the DH spot and ride the hot hand to make sure everybody gets at-bats.
It also means the Guardians don’t have to rush Velazquez, so when does arrive in the major leagues, he and the team are likely to be better for it.
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