The Cleveland Guardians have set starters in third base (Jose Ramirez), first base (Josh Naylor) and second base (Andres Gimenez), with shortstop Brayan Rocchio’s offense improving in the playoffs after a disappointing regular season.
You could say they are set, unless they want to upgrade at shortstop.
Trying to break into that rotation is young utilityman Angel Martinez.
Martinez is not really a plus defender, but he is versatile enough to play five positions: second and third base, and the three outfield spots.
In the end, the one thing that will determine how much he plays in 2025 will be his bat.
For now, the talented Dominican is working on his game at home with the hopes of earning more opportunities next year.
“Cleveland #Guardians 22-year-old INF/OF Angel Martinez putting in off-season work back home in the Dominican Republic,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians 22-year-old INF/OF Angel Martinez putting in off-season work back home in the Dominican Republic.#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/lnNBFt2mqu
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) November 15, 2024
All things considered, 2024 was a positive year for Martinez.
He excelled at Triple-A Columbus with a 111 wRC+ and a .356 OBP.
In the majors, he showcased his keen eye at the plate but then pitchers adjusted to his game and he ended up posting an 83 wRC+ in 43 games, or 17 percent worse than the average MLB hitter.
Baseball is a game of adjustments, and it’s now up to Martinez to make the necessary corrections on his swing and approach.
Unless he is included in a trade, Martinez is still very much in the mix for playing time at the aforementioned positions.
He is talented enough to show his worth and translate his minor league success to the majors if given a chance.
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