The Cleveland Guardians are putting a lot of faith into the idea that their young prospects can give their offense the boost it needs in 2026. One of the most heralded in that group is second baseman Travis Bazzana.
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, Bazzana’s time with the Guardians has been derailed by an oblique injury. Now, though he is entering spring training fully healthy, there are some worries about his ability to contribute immediately and consistently.
However, former MLB executive Steve Phillips is shutting down concerns about Bazzana, saying his high on-base percentage can overcome his low batting average, even in the major leagues.
“I don’t worry too much about [Travis Bazzana’s] batting average. I think the on-base percentage is excellent for him, about .380, getting on base, and some pop in the bat. I like that they focused on offensive players in the draft to try to add to that team. Bazzana, [he’s] got legit power to be able to drive the wall to the ballpark. They can’t buy it in free agency. So they’ve got to get it through the draft, develop, and get there. The fact that Bazzana struggled a little bit, to me, means now, when he gets to the big leagues, and he struggles, and he will, at some point, he’s got something to fall back on. I’m not concerned about him at all. I love him potentially in that lineup, even this year,” Phillips said.
The concerns are valid, but Phillips’ calming words are also relevant. For example, after finally reaching Triple-A last season, Bazzana had a .225 batting average but a .420 on-base percentage in 26 games, thanks to his 29 walks. In 111 career minor league games, he has 83 walks, a .243 batting average, and a .384 on-base percentage.
In a lineup that may need power more than baserunners, Bazzana may not be a perfect fit as it stands right now. But if fellow rookie Chase DeLauter and returning slugger Kyle Manzardo can provide the pop, along with superstar Jose Ramirez, Bazzana could be a very useful element, especially if leadoff hitter Steven Kwan is traded away as has been persistently rumored.
Bazzana will get some big-time experience even before he makes his MLB debut. He is expected to represent his native Australia in this year’s World Baseball Classic.
That should be invaluable as he joins a Guardians team that is a perennial playoff contender and plays important games, especially late in the season. Also, with a good mix of veterans and newcomers, it won’t be all on Bazzana’s shoulders, as might be the case with other top draft picks in a lesser organization.
With a new-look lineup and something to prove despite being back-to-back AL Central champs, this is shaping up as another exciting season in Cleveland.
NEXT: 2 Guardians Players Debut In MLB's Top 100 Prospect List
