5 prospects the Cleveland Guardians could see by the summer

By Chad Porto | Apr 13, 2023

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 27: Zack Collins #6 of the Pittsburgh Pirates walks back to the dugout after being called out on strikes in the second inning during the game against the Cincinnati Reds at PNC Park on September 27, 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

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GOODYEAR, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 23: Brayan Rocchio #66 of the Cleveland Guardians poses for a photo during media day at Goodyear Ballpark on February 23, 2023 in Goodyear, Arizona. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

SS Brayan Rocchio

If Tyler Freeman isn’t in consideration to be called up to replace Gabrial Arias, then you may see Brayan Rocchio get the call-up instead. Not only could he fill in for Arias, but for Amed Rosario if Rosario continues to struggle or gets traded.

Even if Rosario gets his form back, Rocchio is a good reason to not give Rosario a huge contract. He’s got some impressive power for a shortstop and so far on the season, he’s racked up splits of .349/.440/.465 and an OPS of .905. He’s only knocked in three RBIs so far, but he’s scored seven runs, walked seven times, and stolen four bases in a very young season.

Not only is he a budding offensive player at the plate, but defensively he could be every bit as good as Rosario, if not better. Rosario already has four errors to start the year, while Rocchio only has two and he’s been splitting time at both second base and shortstop. That should tell you how good he’s been defensively, at least compared to Rosario.

He’s versatile, has a strong bat, and is someone with high-upside. I’d like to see what he could do should the Guardians end up trading Rosario.

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