Back in spring training, when Cleveland Guardians outfield prospect Chase DeLauter was performing like a star, many people predicted MLB time in his future this year.
The kid was magnificent in the spring, hitting a robust .520/.600/1.040 with four home runs and 10 RBI in 13 games.
The Guards, however, were conservative with him and placed him in Double-A Akron to start the year.
Unfortunately, two injuries robbed him ample playing time and stunted his development, at least in 2024: a fractured fifth metatarsal in his left foot and a turf toe.
Before his extended absence, he was struggling to get anything going in Double-A.
After he came back and regained his rhythm, he started reminiscing that player we saw in the spring.
Given the fact it’s already late August, he might not have time to make it to MLB this year, but the Guardians have rewarded his excellent recent play with a call-up to Triple-A.
Cleveland #Guardians are promoting top prospect 22-year-old OF Chase DeLauter to Triple-A Columbus. #ForTheLand
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) August 19, 2024
If he has a successful Triple-A stint in what’s left of the 2024 campaign, the lefty-hitting DeLauter would be in a position to make the team out of camp next year or shortly thereafter.
He has been on a tear in Double-A, hitting safely in his last nine games and homering in four of his last seven.
He is finally showing the talent that makes him a top prospect in the Guardians system, and everyone in the organization is excited.
His Double-A numbers are up to a .252 batting average in 30 games, with a .770 OPS, five home runs, and 14 walks to 19 strikeouts.
There is still a chance that he gets the call to MLB this year, but next season is looking more likely.
In any case, the Guards have a gem in DeLauter.
NEXT: Guardians Starter Has Fractured Fingernail And Goes To The Injured List
