Opinion: Simple Solution To Guardians' Middle Infield Dilemma
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The position battle for who will be the Opening Day shortstop has been one of the most talked about aspects of the Cleveland Guardians' spring training.
The organization has plenty of options to choose from, but there's a pretty simple solution to this dilemma. Just move Andrés Gimenéz to the other side of the infield.
The transition almost makes too much sense at this point. Shortstop is Giménez's natural position, he's already won two Gold Gloves and a Platinum Glove at second base, is under contract with the team through the 2030 season, and none of the current frontrunners are standing out as reliable options.
Both Brayan Rocchio and Gabriel Arias have struggled at the plate during spring training. Rocchio has a slash line of just .111/.158/.111 in seven spring training games, and Arias has slashed .188/.278/.250, also in seven games.
The defense is always going to be a strength for both of these players, but they still need to show that they can provide something on the offensive end. So far, that hasn't been the case during spring training or their time with the Major League club last season.
Moving Giménez to shortstop solidifies his role on this team for the next half-decade, and also opens up second base for other prospects to be given an opportunity. Say, prospects such as Angel Martínez, who's putting together a tremendous spring training, and Juan Brito (the Guardians' seventh-ranked prospect per MLB Pipeline).
Jul 19, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Cleveland Guardians second baseman Andres Gimenez (0) fields a ground ball for an out against Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Jack Suwinski (not pictured)) during the third inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
© Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
What is the chance of this move actually happening, though? Could Giménez be the team's Opening Day shortstop?
At the very beginning of spring training, Stephen Vogt talked about this and admitted that, "We've talked about it, we haven't completely ruled it out." However, he did downplay that comment, saying, "As of right now, the plan is for Andrés to be at second base."
The fact that Vogt recognized the possibility certainly leaves that door open.
Plus, at some point, the Guardians are going to need to make some tough decisions. Moving Giménez to shortstop may naturally fit into these choices.
