Much has been discussed about the Cleveland Guardians needing outfield help.
While they can surely use a power-hitting outfielder, the outlook is not as bad as some seem to believe.
In fact, there might be more quality options than previously anticipated.
What do we know so far?
The only surefire starter at this point is Steven Kwan, in left field.
Everything else, including Myles Straw in center, is contingent on a lot of things, from performance to health, availability, and potential trades/signings.
The folks at Guardians Prospective reviewed the Guardians’ outfield options aside from the more established Kwan.
“#Guardians should have a plethora of options for the outfield if current players Brennan, De Los Santos, Florial, Laureano and Straw don’t pan out to start the season. Alphabetical order: Chase DeLauter, Petey Halpin, Angel Martinez, Jhonkensy Noel, Johnathan Rodriguez, George Valera,” they tweeted.
#Guardians should have a plethora of options for the outfield if current players Brennan, De Los Santos, Florial, Laureano and Straw don't pan out to start the season.
Alphabetical order:
Chase DeLauter
Petey Halpin
Angel Martinez
Jhonkensy Noel
Johnathan Rodriguez
George…— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) February 22, 2024
Estevan Florial will likely be given every chance to win a spot in the Guardians’ outfield.
He hit 28 home runs last year in Triple-A, but has struggled in limited exposure in the majors.
Chase DeLauter is easily the name with the most upside on the list.
A first-round draft pick in 2022, he already reached Double-A, where he had a .364/.464/.409 line in six games.
He also dominated the competition in High-A and looks like a future star.
Ramon Laureano has a cannon of an arm, some power, and speed and could be the stopgap option in right field.
Johnathan Rodriguez and George Valera are also very promising.
In the end, the Guards might not be in such bad shape after all.
NEXT: Stephen Vogt Reveals Team's Goals For 2024
