Spring training is more than just a space for MLB players to get in shape for the upcoming season.
It’s the perfect opportunity for prospects, journeymen, and outcasts to fight for a roster spot and proper salary compensation, since playing in the majors is much more profitable than the minor leagues.
Every team, as a result, will host a big league camp and invite a lot of people: from members of their projected active rosters to players whose odds of making the team are stacked against them to prospects.
Big league camps are an interesting mix of realities, hopes, and dreams.
The situation is no different with the Cleveland Guardians.
The usual suspects will be in camp, those expected to carry the team: Jose Ramirez, Andres Gimenez, Shane Bieber, Triston McKenzie, the Naylor brothers, Tanner Bibee, Emmanuel Clase, etc.
However, there will also be some journeymen trying to make the team, and a few prospects.
“Some people who are invited to Guardians big-league camp: Kyle Manzardo, Anthony Gose, Bryan Lavastida, Franco Aleman, Tanner Burns, Petey Halpin, Micah Pries, Nic Enright, Raynel Delgado, Daniel Schneemann, Jaime Barria, Adam Oller, Eric Rodriguez, Michael Berglund,” Guardians insider Zack Meisel tweeted.
Some people who are invited to Guardians big-league camp: Kyle Manzardo, Anthony Gose, Bryan Lavastida, Franco Aleman, Tanner Burns, Petey Halpin, Micah Pries, Nic Enright, Raynel Delgado, Daniel Schneemann, Jaime Barria, Adam Oller, Eric Rodriguez, Michael Berglund
— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) January 19, 2024
The prospect group will be headlined by first baseman Kyle Manzardo.
The young slugger should be a factor in 2024.
He slashed .256/.348/.590 in 21 Triple-A games with the Guardians, with a 123 wRC+.
Then, he went to the Arizona Fall League and was one of the best players there, slashing .272/.340/.565.
It’s clear he is ready, and he will be given a chance to win a spot out of camp.
NEXT: Guardians Prospect Shows Up Near Top Of Elite Ranking
