Even when things aren’t going his way offensively, Cleveland Guardians second baseman Travis Bazzana finds ways to contribute to his team. That’s the mark of a true champion right there.
The rookie has racked up just one hit in his last three games and 14 plate appearances, yet he was there to snatch a line drive and double off a runner at first base in the first inning of Wednesday’s game, which turned out to be a much-needed win.
He was also there in the series opener against the Chicago White Sox on Monday, when he manufactured the tying run all by himself in the ninth inning after walking, stealing second, and advancing to third on a wild pitch, then crossing home plate on a single.
Oh, and he was also there last weekend in Houston, hitting two home runs and driving in five runs on the same day to lift Cleveland to a win. As you can see, Bazzana is everywhere and can contribute in all facets of the game even when it seems like he’s struggling.
Guardians legend Carlos Baerga loves him and what he’s brought to Cleveland since being promoted in late April.
“Bazzana has been hitting really good. He’s been our key right now. He’s playing amazing,” Baerga said.
It is AWESOME that Travis Bazzana is able to shoulder the offense as a rookie. #GuardsBall
"He's been our key right now, he's hitting amazing."
– @baerga99https://t.co/62Z44b1JOI pic.twitter.com/16UWHV68rc
— Cleveland Guardians on SI (@GuardsOnSI) June 25, 2026
The former No. 1 pick in the 2024 MLB Draft is, quite simply, the best and most important position player in Cleveland right now. The face of the franchise is still Jose Ramirez, but he’s currently out with a left hamate bone fracture and won’t return for a few weeks, at least.
Bazzana knows that he is now the focal point of the lineup, the top hitter, and the heart and soul of the team. He has accepted the challenge and plays as hard as any other player on the roster.
As of Thursday, he is slashing a cool .261/.357/.446 with seven home runs, 12 stolen bases, and a 125 wRC+. He has been worth 1.4 Wins Above Replacement, or WAR; and is already among the best second basemen in baseball.
If Bazzana can catch fire with the bat for the next few weeks, the Guardians should remain competitive until Ramirez, Angel Martinez, and fellow rookie Chase DeLauter return from their injuries.
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