5 Cleveland Guardians who have excelled at the plate in Spring Training

2. Kyle Manzardo

Another interesting player who should be with the major league team sooner rather than later and who has been impressive this spring is Kyle Manzardo.

Taking part in his first Spring Training with the Cleveland Guardians organization, Manzardo has been one of the better hitters in Arizona. Collecting eight hits in 21 at-bats, two of which were doubles. There is a lot to be encouraged about from Manzardo's performance this spring, as it appears the Guardians have someone who can come in and contribute right from the jump. The problem is that it is going to take some time for that to happen, as Manzardo has been assigned to minor league camp.

Being moved from major to minor league camp is not all that surprising, considering that Manzardo struck out seven times in 23 plate appearances. A 30% strikeout rate is hardly ideal and definitely something that is going to need to be improved upon moving forward. But there is a reason why Cleveland acquired Manzardo from Tampa Bay last year, and it is not because he is someone who is multiple years away. It is due to the belief he can be a contributor in the near future. Some improvement in the strikeout department, and Manzardo will be up in the majors, sharing time with Josh Naylor at first base and designated hitter in no time.