The Cleveland Guardians thought they were extending their second baseman of the future when they gave Andrés Giménez a lofty nine-figures deal after his strong 2022.
Indeed, he has incredible traits that make him a nice player: generational defense, good wheels, intangibles, and charisma, just to name a few.
His offense has stalled a bit after hitting its ceiling two years ago, though.
The Guardians, presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, drafted Travis Bazzana first overall in 2024.
The Oregon State product had all the merits, tools and intangibles to warrant such a high pick.
But he plays second base almost exclusively, being limited there by his throwing arm strength.
The scenario presents the question: where will Giménez’s future be? Where will Bazzana’s? And when will the latter be ready to make his debut?
Well, if Bazzana is as advertised (there have been no signs that tell us he isn’t as of now), Giménez will probably slide over to shortstop and probably fight for a starting gig with Brayan Rocchio or one of many Guardians talented minor league shortstops at some point.
Bazzana posted a cool 126 wRC+ in 27 High-A games this year, proving he is probably ready for Double-A.
As much as Cleveland would love for Bazzana to break camp with the team in 2025, he is not quite ready.
The 2025 campaign, however, will be crucial for him because he will have to show he is ready to dominate picture in the high minors.
If he does that with flying colors, there is an outside chance he gets a cup of coffee in September 2025.
If things aren’t as smooth, then 2026 will probably be his year.
Bazzana is Cleveland’s second baseman of the future.
Giménez and Rocchio are phenomenal defenders, but the numbers game will probably mean they will be playing for a starting role as soon as 2025.
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