Cleveland Guardians feature two prospects in Baseball America's updated top 100 list
The Cleveland Guardians enter the 2024 season with two players on Baseball America's list of the top 100 prospects in the game.
Baseball America has unveiled its first 2024 list of the top 100 prospects in baseball, and the Cleveland Guardians have two names on the list.
Outfielder Chase DeLauter (#29) and infielder Brayan Rocchio (#80) cracked the list, though it's a bit surprising to see Cleveland only getting two players named. Typically, Cleveland's impressive farm system gets a little more representation on lists like this, though it should be noted the organization has two guys - Daniel Espino and Kyle Manzardo - who just missed the top 100.
DeLauter made his way back from injury in 2023, but when he played, he absolutely torched pitching across rookie ball, High-A and Double-A. Combined between those three levels, DeLauter slashed .355/.417/.528 with five home runs, 22 doubles, 39 RBI, and six stolen bases in 242 plate appearances. The 2022 first-round pick could be on the fast track to the majors, with a possible arrival date sometime in 2025.
As for Rocchio, he made his debut with Cleveland last season, struggling to get regular playing time. But there's no reason to think he couldn't take over the starting shortstop job for good in 2024, as he should figure to be an integral part of the team moving forward.
As the 2024 season progresses, one figures the Guardians should be able to squeeze in a couple more prospects into this top 100 list (looking at you, Juan Brito).