Guardians’ Stephen Vogt Emphasizing Defensive Versatility Early

Cleveland's manager explained that the team is working on its defensive versatility during spring training.

Spring training is in full swing for the Cleveland Guardians.

While the team has placed an emphasis on improving its power hitting early on, Cleveland is also focusing on an aspect of its defense.

Yesterday, Guardians manager Stephen Vogt explained that the team is having its players work on their defensive versatility.

“I think just explaining to young players that defensive versatility is a great trait to have. As many ways as you can get your bat in the lineup as possible is going to give you the most opportunities to play. We’ve been talking a lot with some of our players about continuing to work on their defensive versatility so we can find ways to put the best roster out there every day.”

Feb 22, 2024; Goodyear, AZ, USA; Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt poses for a photo during Media Day at the Cleveland Guardians Spring Training Facility.

© Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

This defensive philosophy has already made a significant impact.

Earlier this week, Vogt said that power hitting prospect Deyvison De Los Santos will be playing not just in the infield, but also both corner outfield positions. This comes after the 20-year-old has only played first base and third base in three professional seasons.

Playing a different defensive position could give De Los Santos an increased chance to consistently be in Cleveland’s lineup, given that the Guardians’ two best offensive players, Josh Naylor and José Ramírez, are already playing the infield corner positions.

Cleveland does already have some players who have recently shown defensive versatility.

Gabriel Arias, who is competing for the team’s starting shortstop spot, has also played first base, second base, third base, and right field over the past two years. This past season, David Fry played catcher, first base, third base, and both corner outfield positions.

If more players show the capability to play multiple defensive positions this spring, the Guardians should have more flexibility with their lineup this season.