The Cleveland Guardians are eager to give Kyle Manzardo a prominent role in 2025.
It’s fair to say he earned it.
In 2024, the first baseman struggled, adjusted, and then dominated.
That’s what teams love to see in their prospects: they aren’t opposed to seeing them face adversity because that gives them the strength to power through and look for a way to improve.
Right now, the sweet-swinging infielder is dominating once again in spring training.
He went 2-for-3 on Saturday and extended his hot streak at the plate in Cactus League play.
“Cleveland #Guardians (1B) Kyle Manzardo collected two more hits today including this RBI single in the 3rd inning today vs the Padres. Spring numbers: 9-22 4R 2(2B) 2HR 5RBI 1BB .409 AVG 1.231 OPS,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians (1B) Kyle Manzardo collected two more hits today including this RBI single in the 3rd inning today vs the Padres.
Spring numbers:
9-22 4R 2(2B) 2HR 5RBI 1BB .409 AVG 1.231 OPS#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/rx8aUP632B
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) March 9, 2025
Manzardo has hit safely in each of his last four games and accumulated six hits (one home run,) two runs, and three RBI over that span.
He is in a very good spot to lock down a prominent lineup role with Cleveland.
After struggling with a .571 OPS in his first stint in the majors from early May to mid-June of 2024, he was demoted back to Triple-A to work on his game and his approach.
He was recalled in the second half and hit .270 (17-for-63) with a .873 OPS and five homers in 23 games.
Then, he accumulated a .316 batting average (6-for-19) in nine playoff games, including a towering home run in Game 3 of the American League Championship Series.
He should be the everyday designated hitter and hit second against right-handers.
The Guardians are ready to unleash a much more mature Manzardo to the league.
NEXT: Physical Transformation Is Paying Off For Guardians Prospect
