Kyle Manzardo’s second season with the Cleveland Guardians revealed the promise and difficulties that come with developing as a major league hitter.
Batting behind José Ramírez early in the year provided the lineup with added depth and power.
Manzardo thrived as a run producer when given consistent opportunities at the plate.
But as summer wore on, the physical demands of a full MLB schedule became evident.
Manager Stephen Vogt and others within the organization observed clear signs of fatigue, showing how challenging a long season can be for a young first baseman.
Guardians reporter Andre Knott discussed Manzardo’s season and the fatigue factor during a recent appearance.
“I asked [Stephen Vogt] what he thought of Manzardo hitting behind Jose. He said for the first three-and-a-half, four months, he thought it was great, but he felt like he ran out of steam—he got tired. I don’t think people realize, once you get to mid-August, most of these guys have no legs left, shoulders are done,” Knott said.
Will we see a stronger Kyle Manzardo next season? #GuardsBall@DreKnott talks the toll 162 games takes on an athlete's body. pic.twitter.com/iY263dMfZZ
— Carlos Baerga Show (@BaergaShow) October 10, 2025
Between August 13 and 20, Manzardo managed just one hit across seven games while posting a .050 average.
He struck out eight times and walked once during that stretch. Another slump in late September reinforced how the grind affects even the most talented young players over 162 games.
Manzardo finished 2025 with a .234/.313/.455 slash line while hitting 27 home runs and driving in 70 runs.
He showed modest improvements in his walk rate at 9.0 percent and a small decline in strikeouts at 24.9 percent.
Those numbers reflect developing plate discipline that remains uncommon for second-year sluggers.
Vogt and the coaching staff remain confident in his trajectory, emphasizing endurance and late-season conditioning as primary focus areas.
With his combination of power and patience, Manzardo has the tools to become a lineup anchor.
Offseason work will be essential to maintain performance deep into future campaigns.
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