The Cleveland Guardians may have found another star.
Former Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Kyle Manzardo is emerging as one of the team’s top sluggers, and that might not have been in the initial plans.
Notably, plenty of that might have to do with knowing his role.
At least, that’s how he feels.
In a recent appearance on the Carlos Baerga Show, the 24-year-old cited knowing and embracing his role as the biggest adjustments he made ahead of this season.
“I got so much crucial experience last year that has prepared me for things this year early on,” Manzardo said. “Just kind of understanding what my role is on the team this year and, also, taking everything I learned last year and trying to apply that day-to-day has made a big difference.”
What has been the biggest difference in Kyle Manzardo's game since last season? #GuardsBall
"Just kind of understanding what my role is on the team this year…"
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— Carlos Baerga Show (@BaergaShow) April 27, 2025
Manzardo was always seen as a contact hitter, and power wasn’t a part of the equation.
He’s changed his approach at the plate, and while his batting average has dropped from .234 to .210, his slugging percentage has gone all the way to .531.
Manzardo has been much better against breaking balls, crushing them for a .765 slugging percentage this year.
Needless to say, this has been a huge boost for Stephen Vogt’s team, and it has pretty much changed the plans for the lineup.
Entering the season, the Guardians had a well-balanced roster, but power-hitting was one of the main concerns.
That’s still the case to some degree, but it’s always refreshing to see a young player slowly coming together and proving the doubters wrong.
The Guardians had some big plans for him when they agreed to trade a valuable piece like Aaron Civale.
And while the early returns weren’t necessarily that encouraging, it seems like the Idaho native is about to become a fan favorite.
NEXT: 2 Guardians Pitching Stars Set For Important Rehab Step In May
