Even though Andrés Giménez is not in the picture anymore after his trade to the Toronto Blue Jays, Cleveland Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio knows he is entering a pivotal year for his future on the team.
After the brutal season he had with the bat, the Guardians need to see him hitting to really own the fact he will be their starting shortstop for years to come.
So far, they are not there yet.
The Guards have many quality infield prospects to just commit to Rocchio: they have Angel Genao in the low minors and Juan Brito and Angel Martinez close to the majors, not to mention future second baseman Travis Bazzana and others of note.
Knowing he will have to enjoy an offensive resurgence in 2025, Rocchio has been training for a while.
He was spotted working out in Florida, in preparation for what’s to come.
“Cleveland #Guardians 23yr old switch-hitting (SS) Brayan Rocchio training down at Symmetry Performance down in Florida,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians 23yr old switch-hitting (SS) Brayan Rocchio training down at Symmetry Performance down in Florida.#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/KQyD33Uj5X
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) December 24, 2024
The talented defensive shortstop earned a Gold Glove nomination in 2024.
Offensively, however, he was subpar.
He posted a .206 batting average and a .614 OPS, one of the worst marks in MLB among regulars.
If we go to the minor league numbers, we all know Rocchio is capable of much more.
At least he gave a very good impression in the postseason, where he finished with a .906 OPS and helped take Cleveland to the American League Championship Series.
Now, he will be playing for his future in the franchise.
The stakes are high and he is making sure to prepare himself.
NEXT: Guardians Insider Discusses Projected Lineup After Recent Moves
