Travis Bazzana is facing big expectations for the Cleveland Guardians in the upcoming season, which should not be a surprise for someone who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. How the infielder lives up to them will go a long way in determining the team’s success in 2026.
He could have been here even sooner, but injuries have delayed his MLB debut. Knowing he is projected to be the second baseman in the Opening Day lineup has him preparing for a season like never before.
Bazzana recently explained the habits behind his development as a player, saying he chooses to make the “big league decision” every time he faces a choice.
“It’s just making the habits, making the routine of making the quality decision. I can sit on my phone this afternoon, or I can do what I put on my wall, and throw and hit. I can drink the soda, or I can drink the water. I can go to sleep on time, or I can stay up until 1 a.m. and play video games. Would a big leaguer make this decision? No, yes, no, yes. Over time, you make the big league decision over the not big league decision. You step a little bit closer to the goal that’s so far away and it’s hard to envision, but you’re trying to carry yourself like a big leaguer would way before it’s realistic. Gradually, you see progress,” Bazzana said on the NxtGen Baseball podcast.
Cleveland #Guardians 23yr old (2B) prospect Travis Bazzana speaking recently on the NxtGen Baseball podcast hosted by former MLB pitcher Ryan Rowland-Smith.#GuardsBall pic.twitter.com/2B9VMiIF44
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) February 3, 2026
It is a very mature approach, one likely made necessary by the setbacks the 23-year-old has faced in his brief pro career. Because of multiple oblique injuries, he was limited to 84 games over three levels in his first full minor league season last year.
However, he did finish strong, with an .858 OPS and four home runs in 26 Triple-A games before an injury recurrence ended his season. Despite a .225 batting average, he did have a .420 on-base percentage, which is raising some questions about his ability to provide consistent offense once he does reach the major leagues.
The native of Australia will also satisfy another goal if he takes part in the World Baseball Classic representing his home country. It may take valuable time away from his participation at spring training, but it should prove to be a worthwhile and beneficial experience.
Cleveland is facing some skepticism overall, as the organization failed to make any additions to bolster its offense this offseason. Instead, it is counting on Bazzana and other young prospects to provide a boost from within.
Rookies Chase DeLauter, George Valera and C.J. Kayfus are also projected to be part of the Opening Day lineup, which could prove to be a boom or bust proposition for a team looking to defend back-to-back AL Central titles.
NEXT: Insider Raises Concern About 2 Key Guardians Positions
