The Cleveland Guardians face a familiar dilemma that tests every manager during a playoff race. Do you stick with the proven veteran or trust the hot hand of an unproven talent?
For Stephen Vogt, that choice has become easier as Kyle Manzardo continues tearing the cover off the ball.
Manzardo has been nearly unstoppable since the All-Star break, forcing his way into regular playing time.
The decision to keep riding the first baseman’s surge has caught the attention of analysts around baseball.
Analyst Matt Fontana recently praised Vogt for finally committing to Manzardo during crunch time.
“The most positive thing, and this is not meant to be a shot at Steven Vogt… he’s finally playing Kyle Manzardo. I finally saw it. They’re going to sit down Santana. They’re going to find a way to keep Manzardo in the lineup. Thank God. I don’t know why it took this long. Don’t take him out of the lineup. Just don’t do it. Okay? You don’t think that helps Jose feel a little bit better when he’s got Manzardo batting behind him a little bit?” Fontana said.
The most positive thing Stephen Vogt has done since the All-Star break
"He's finally playing Kyle Manzardo … I don't know why it took this long, don't take him out of the lineup."
Presented by @physiciansamb https://t.co/7EqzgYEEFP pic.twitter.com/e4IJrid4x0
— Matt Fontana Show (@MattFontanaShow) August 17, 2025
The numbers back up the enthusiasm. Manzardo has slashed .343/.440/.686 with seven home runs since mid-July. That production ranks among the best in baseball over that stretch.
His recent power surge includes homers in three straight games. More importantly, Vogt has positioned Manzardo directly behind José Ramírez in the batting order.
That placement gives opposing pitchers a tough choice when facing Cleveland’s star.
The strategy paid off with back-to-back home runs against Miami and New York last week.
The connection between Ramírez and Manzardo has created a friendly competition in the clubhouse while providing real protection in the lineup.
Vogt’s willingness to reduce Carlos Santana’s role shows his commitment to merit-based decisions.
With Cleveland playing its best baseball since July, the manager appears ready to ride whatever works heading into October.
NEXT: Guardians Reveal Injury Updates On 8 Players
