The Cleveland Guardians’ development system is the gift that just keeps on giving.
Knowing that they can’t compete with the bigger markets or the powerhouses, they often have to rely on scouting and developing young players to stay competitive.
That was definitely the case with C.J. Kayfus and Parker Messick.
The two have been a breath of fresh air for a team that was desperately in need of a punch to stay alive in the playoff race this season, and even though they don’t have a lot of experience, they’ve looked like veterans out there.
With that in mind, and after they combined to lift the Guardians past the Chicago White Sox on Saturday, manager Stephen Vogt had nothing but praise for them:
“They’re a product of our player development system,” said Vogt. “They work extremely hard with our guys to get them ready to come up. Then it’s our job to take it and run with it. To have Kayfus and Messick come up and have the impact that they have at this time of year has been a huge boost for us.”
Kayfus dominated his way to the majors after a strong season at Triple-A Columbus, and he’s held his ground so far in the majors.
Of course, there’s still plenty of work to be done with him, and there will be speed bumps and growing pains along the way; that’s all part of the process.
Even so, he should already be in line to start for the team next season.
As for Messick, he’s looked like a true gem from the very second he set foot on the mound, logging four quality starts in five outings.
He has yet to lose a game, and his ERA is down to 1.84.
Those numbers might not be sustainable over a full season, but he has definitely earned a spot in the rotation going forward.
NEXT: Parker Messick Reveals His Goal With Guardians
