The Cleveland Guardians haven’t exactly set the world on fire offensively in the American League Championship Series.
As the series against the Detroit Tigers showed, this offense can be frustrating to watch when it goes cold.
They were shut out by the Tigers in Games 2 and 3, and have scored five runs in two games against the New York Yankees in the ALCS.
One of their most troublesome positions has been right field, where they have gotten virtually no production from Jhonkensy Noel and Will Brennan.
Noel is 1-for-15 with a.243 OPS in the playoffs, and Brennan is 1-for-10 with a .300 OPS.
Noel’s performance has been particularly disappointing given the power he showcased in the regular season.
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt is trying to give his offense a spark and is introducing a key change in his lineup.
“Schneemann is batting 6th and in right for the Guardians in Game 3. Hedges behind the plate, batting 8th,” Guardians insider Tom Withers posted on X.
Schneemann is batting 6th and in right for the Guardians in Game 3.
Hedges behind the plate, batting 8th.— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) October 17, 2024
Schneemann only has one plate appearance in the postseason, so it will be his first real opportunity to shine.
He was brilliant in Triple-A this year and held his own at the MLB level for a portion of the season, but ended posting a .218/.303/.368 line with a .671 OPS.
He is a competitive hitter who is patient and has good at-bats.
Vogt is hoping he can fit in that sixth spot of the lineup.
This team needs its young players to step up and perform, and now Vogt is giving Schneemann a chance.
NEXT: Analyst Shows Faith In Guardians With Surprising ALCS Prediction
