Cleveland Guardians utilityman Daniel Schneemann appeared to be breaking out in the first month of the season, posting a brilliant .321/.391/.564 line and a 168 wRC+. His performance started slipping after that, though, and he was eventually optioned to Triple-A in July with a 69 wRC+.
His defensive versatility makes him a valuable organizational player, but the offensive issues eventually led to that decision. However, on Monday, he was called back up to the majors as rosters expanded.
It wasn’t just to fill the roster, no: Schneemann has been tearing the cover off the ball in Triple-A for a while now. He deserved a spot on the major league active roster.
The 29-year-old discussed his demotion, the path that led to him being called up again, and ‘not putting so much pressure’ on himself as one of the primary factor behind his recent turnaround in Columbus.
“It’s always tough to make in-season adjustments. Obviously you never want to get sent down, but I really think there were a lot of things that were going to help me get back to where I know I am. It’s just enjoying the game again and not putting so much pressure on myself and just trying to make those adjustments. I really think it was a blessing in disguise, I could say. I’m glad to be back,” Schneemann said, per MLB.com.
Evidently, the organization gave him some assignments to work on during his time in the minors. He didn’t enter into any specifics, but it’s clear that whatever he worked on helped him.
In 25 games in Triple-A, Schneemann hit an incredible .326/.457/.533 with three home runs, four stolen bases, and a whopping 163 wRC+. He also hit 10 doubles, including a stunning eight in his last 12 games.
In other words, Schneemann looked a lot like his best version: the one who hits for average, finds the gaps often, and hits the occasional homer. The Guardians now hope he can replicate that form against better, tougher pitching in the majors. It’s not easy, but Schneemann has been good for stretches before.
If he can hit, he will have a prominent role in Cleveland, because his versatile glove can play just about anywhere.
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