The Cleveland Guardians have done plenty of good things this season, but they’re still not anywhere near where they want to be right now.
Notably, some of that might have to do with their outfield play.
They currently rank No. 29 in the Majors in wRC+ for right fielders and center fielders, with only the Colorado Rockies behind them.
Perhaps it’s time to give one of their most electric prospects a look, even though he’s not naturally an outfielder.
As pointed out by Justin L. of Locked In Guardians on X, first baseman prospect C.J. Kayfus has been on fire since he’s been playing right field at Triple-A Columbus.
He’s now hitting .367/.458/.592 for the season in 32 appearances, all while also boasting a .455 BABIP.
Another start in RF for CJ Kayfus tonight, another night where he rakes.
He's now hitting a blistering .367/.458/.592 this year in 32 games.
Important to note he's carrying and unrealistic .455 BABIP.
Contact/chase also not in the most ideal place.pic.twitter.com/HfwO6QqJRB
— Justin L. (jlbaseball on bluesky) (@JL_Baseball) May 18, 2025
Kayfus has played 72 innings in right field, which is still not enough, but the early returns are encouraging.
On the downside, he does have a 15.4% swinging rate, so he might struggle at the plate against big-league pitching, but he’s still more than worth the shot.
Lane Thomas is still out with an injury.
Nolan Jones has struggled mightily at the plate, and Will Brennan doesn’t offer much upside.
As for Jhokensy Noel, he has yet to pick up things where he left off last season.
Kayfus has a 165 wRC+ dating back to last season, and he has a 187 wRC+ at Columbus.
He went 3-of-4 with a double in his last game, so even though he might not be a natural right fielder, he might be just what this team needs right now.
NEXT: Guardians' All-Star Moves One Step Closer To The Majors
