The Cleveland Guardians are getting Franmil Reyes back on a hot-streak

Franmil Reyes may finally be back to a productive form.

The Cleveland Guardians are bringing back Franmil Reyes from his rehab stint in Triple-A Columbus just in time for a key series against the Minnesota Twins. The Guardians are only one game back from the Twins for the AL Central and are in second place in the Wild Card race. So the return of Reyes, especially if he’s on a hot streak, is a boon for the team.

Reyes has had a hot run in Triple-A Columbus, hitting .429, with two home runs and six RBI. It was only a five-game stretch but it was hard to remember the last time that he has that consistent over five games. That’s a massive reason to be excited about his return to the lineup.

If he struggles again, however, it’s unclear what the team will do with him. They’re a good club and are making a real run for the playoffs, so the idea that Reyes could be traded if he can’t return to form isn’t an out-there prospect at all.

Cleveland Guardians DFA Oscar Mercado to make room for Franmil Reyes

While Reyes is back with the club, one player won’t be, and that’s Oscar Mercado who was designated for assignment to make room for Reyes’ return. It’s possible that Mercado clears waivers and returns to Triple-A Columbus, but at just 27 years old and with a strong rookie year to his name, it’s also possible that someone comes calling for him.

If he does get claimed or traded, it will mark the end of a once-promising career. Mercado’s 2017 season saw him hit 15 home runs and 54 RBIs in just 115 games and looked like he was on the verge of being a breakout hitter.

injuries and inconsistencies derailed a once-promising career and while he still has potential, moving on from him makes the most sense at this juncture.