In the first few weeks following his arrival via trade to play for the Cleveland Guardians, many people were running out of patience and frustrated because of Lane Thomas’ lack of production.
Indeed, he struggled badly for a rather extended period of time in his new team.
Fans, however, don’t always understand that baseball players are human beings that need some time to adjust and settle down in new surroundings, teammates, people and realities.
The Guardians could have easily throw in the towel and try other alternatives instead of Thomas, but they remained patient and are now reaping the benefits.
Because of their willingness to wait it out, Cleveland is now enjoying the sustained production from the ‘Lane Train’.
The Lane Train is rollin' into October. 🔥 #ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/p3c8mcsfqH
— Bally Sports Cleveland (@BallySportsCLE) September 25, 2024
As Bally Sports Cleveland points out, Thomas has been huge in September.
Of course, he showed the world what he is capable of last year when he posted a .783 OPS, 28 home runs and 20 stolen bases with the Washington Nationals.
Now, he is red-hot and helped the Guardians secure the AL Central and a first-round bye with his hot bat.
Thomas has three homers and a .609 slugging percentage in his last seven games, and his 20 RBI in September are the most in the American League.
He is also tied for the AL lead with seven round-trippers this months, showing off his considerable power.
All things considered, Thomas has been a worthwhile addition to the Guardians lineup, a unit that needed another powerful player capable of causing fear in opposing pitcher’s hearts.
His recent run of excellent play have taken his full-season OPS to .721, and he is up to 15 long balls.
Thomas will enter the playoffs as one of the hottest hitters on Cleveland’s roster.
NEXT: Guardians Clinch First-Round Bye In The Postseason
