Duo Of Guardians Prospects Putting On Show In Arizona Fall League
The Cleveland Guardians' need for more offense isn't exactly a secret. They need to make some offseason additions to their lineup if they want to return to the playoffs next season.
However, this doesn't mean they need to sign a massive free agent or pull off a blockbuster trade to get some help (even though that would be nice). Their farm system is still loaded with young talent and a duo is currently impressing in the 2023 Arizona Fall League.
Chase DeLauter
Chase DeLaughter (Guardians No. 4 Prospect bia MLB Pipeline) has played in six Fall League games so far and already has a slash line of .320/.355/.600 with an OPS of .955. The 16th overall pick of the 2022 MLB Draft also has a pair of home runs showing off the potential he has to be a go-to power bat in Cleveland's order.
DeLauter could make his Big League debut sooner rather than later if he continues on this track. He was promoted to Double-A Akron at the end of the 2023 Minor League season and something tells me it won't be there for long.
It's unlikely we'll see him on the 2024 Opening Day roster, but perhaps he'll get an opportunity as the summer goes on.
Kyle Manzardo
Unlike DeLauter, Kyle Manzardo (Guardians No. 2 Prospect) will likely be someone fighting for playtime during Spring Training and into the early regular season. He's currently doing everything he needs to do to show the organization he's ready for The Show.
Manzardo is slugging .400 with an OPS of .760 through his first six games of the AFL. He has one home run and four RBI under his belt demonstrating the impact that he can have on an offense.
Chase DeLauter (left) and Kyle Manzardo (right).
2023 may have been full of a lot of disappointment and frustration, but these two are proof there is plenty of hope and excitement in 2024 and beyond.
