Could Chase DeLauter be an angel in the outfield for the Cleveland Guardians?

The Cleveland Guardians have gotten next to no production from their outfield all year, and the position has been glaring hole all season that's hindered their ability to consistently generate runs.

As the season progresses, all eyes are turning to the minor league system, specifically to highly touted prospect Chase DeLauter, who could very well be the missing piece the team desperately needs. The question on many fans' minds: could he be the next Kyle Tucker?

Could Chase DeLauter be an angel in the outfield for the Cleveland Guardians?

DeLauter is currently tearing it up in Triple-A and has showcased an impressive blend of power, plate discipline, and athleticism since returning from injury.

In 26 games at Triple-A Columbus this season, he's slashing an impressive .305/.417/.505 with 29 hits, five doubles, four home runs and 16 RBI.

These numbers are not just good; they're elite for a prospect knocking on the door of the big leagues. His ability to get on base at a high clip, coupled with developing power, makes him an incredibly intriguing option for a Guardians lineup that has struggled to find consistent offensive production, within the team's outfield (excluding Steven Kwan) consistently underperforming.

Guardians outfielders have combined for a wRC+ of just 78 this year, while their right fielders have had a wRC+ of just 53.

The Guardians' outfield, outside of Steven Kwan, has been a revolving door of underperforming bats. While Nolan Jones and Lane Thomas are currently on the roster, their offensive contributions have been inconsistent, with Thomas particularly struggling since returning from a wrist injury.

Bringing up DeLauter, especially with his left-handed swing, could provide a much-needed jolt and offer a formidable platoon option, potentially rotating with existing outfielders.

The Kyle Tucker Comparison: A glimpse into DeLauter's potential

The comparison to Chicago Cubs star Kyle Tucker isn't a hyperbolic reach; it's rooted in a similar player makeup and skill set.

Here's how DeLauter's scouting report was broken down out of college; Hit: 55, Power: 60, Run: 55, Arm: 60, Field: 55, and an overall grade of 55.

He also has a unique backstory. He was barely recruited out of high school but blossomed at James Madison and became the program's first first-round pick after a stellar collegiate career where he batted .402/.520/.715 in three years.

While he's had a variety of injury setbacks since getting drafted by the Guardians including a broken foot and core muscle surgery, he's consistently proven his offensive prowess, notably leading the Cape Cod League in homers (nine) and slugging (.589) in 2021.

His 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame houses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and plate discipline. His raw power to all fields is well above-average, and he demonstrates an incredibly disciplined approach at the plate.

While scouts note a tendency for a long swing, his consistent hard contact mitigates this concern. He also possesses solid speed and a plus arm, making him a strong candidate for right field, though he's capable of playing center.

Let's look at Kyle Tucker's pre-draft scouting report to truly understand the comparison. Tucker's tools were graded as follows: Hit: 60, Power: 55, Run: 50, Arm: 55, Field: 50, and an overall grade of 55.

His pre-draft stats in 23 games were equally impressive, with a .407 average, .581 on-base percentage with six doubles, eight home runs, and 21 RBI in 54 at-bats. Tucker, a former top prospect himself, was lauded for one of the purest swings in his draft class.

His ability to make consistent hard contact and project for plus hit and power tools once he filled out his lanky frame made him highly desirable. Like DeLauter, he was seen as a well-rounded player with above-average tools across the board, eventually settling into a corner outfield role with strong arm strength.

The parallels are striking. Both players boast excellent hitting abilities, with the potential for significant power. Both possess strong arms and the athleticism to handle outfield duties, projecting ultimately as classic right fielders.

DeLauter's current minor league performance, particularly his high walk rate and low strikeout rate, further solidifies the comparison to Tucker, known for his patient and productive approach.

The Guardians are currently in the thick of the postseason hunt, but their offensive shortcomings are a clear impediment. With DeLauter performing at an elite level in Triple-A , the timing for a call-up seems increasingly opportune.

He could provide the much-needed consistent offensive weapon the Guardians' outfield desperately craves. While there's always an adjustment period for prospects making the jump, DeLauter's advanced plate approach and power profile suggest he could be an immediate impact bat

The potential is undeniable. If DeLauter can maintain his health and continue to develop, the Guardians might not just be fixing an offensive hole; they could be unleashing their next homegrown superstar, potentially mirroring the trajectory of a player like Kyle Tucker and fundamentally transforming their lineup for years to come.