Luis L. Ortiz might be one of the most underrated off-season acquisitions not only of the Cleveland Guardians, but also among all teams.
The Guards flipped second baseman Andrés Giménez to the Toronto Blue Jays and got infielder Spencer Horwitz in return.
Then, a few hours later, they sent Horwitz to the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for Ortiz and two pitching prospects.
The Pirates aren’t exactly known for their excellence in pitching development.
Nevertheless, Ortiz was able to post a rock-solid 3.32 ERA in 135.2 innings in 2024.
Imagine his potential now that he has entered one of the best places for young pitchers.
Former MLB hitter and current analyst Sean Casey loves the acquisition for Cleveland.
“This guy’s got electric stuff…this guy is an absolute young stud.” @TheMayorsOffice discusses why Luis Oritz is going to be a huge addition for Cleveland’s starting rotation” MLB Network wrote on X.
"This guy's got electric stuff…this guy is an absolute young stud.@TheMayorsOffice discusses why Luis Oritz is going to be a huge addition for Cleveland's starting rotation?#MLBTonight presented by @CohnReznick pic.twitter.com/GaioM8PwbC
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 11, 2024
Casey explains to the world some of Ortiz’s traits after watching him more than a few times in 2024.
“99 mph fastball, four pitch mix, only going to get better, 25 years old,” Casey said with evident enthusiasm.
The Guardians are capable of improving Ortiz’s fastball utility while sharpening his slider, among other things.
The right-hander is expected to slot in the middle of Cleveland’s rotation behind Tanner Bibee and Gavin Williams, at least until Shane Bieber returns.
As things stand, bringing in Ortiz was the right call for Guardians president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti.
Now, the ball is in the coaches and player development guys’ court.
His frame, velocity and stuff make one think that he has ace potential.
NEXT: Guardians Shaping Up For Intense Spring Training Battle For Second Base
