Potential breakout prospect could be the Guardians' next long-term shortstop

Since trading Francisco Lindor to the New York Mets in 2021, the shortstop position in Cleveland has been in a state of flux. The Guardians have seen the likes of Amed Rosario, Gabriel Arias, and Brayan Rocchio get their shot to be the answer to Cleveland's problem, but none have proven worthy of being irreplaceable. This is a pretty rough spot to be in and could be a major problem if it is not rectified. However, there could be some light at the end of the tunnel.

Appearing as part of a list on MLB.com showcasing One potential breakout prospect for each organization in 2025, the Guardians could have someone capable of being their next long-term shortstop make some serious strides toward making that a reality. Cleveland's entry in this list is 18-year-old infielder Welbyn Francisca.

Despite residing in the lower levels of Cleveland's minor league system, there appears to be a decent amount of faith in the young switch-hitter from those who compiled this list, "Signed for $1,375,000 in 2023, Francisca's feel for the barrel from both sides of the plate was evident while he was hitting .326/.411/.474 with seven homers and 19 steals in 74 games between Rookie ball and Single-A.". Even though Francisca was only playing in the Arizona Complex and Carolina leagues, being able to perform at this level is very encouraging.

It is still going to be a while before Francisca gets his shot to take over the shortstop position in Cleveland. Francisca still has to progress through multiple levels of the Guardians' minor league system before that possibility is actually on the table, and that is not factoring in any possible setbacks he may experience. If his career stays on track and he continues developing, Francisca could be a name to watch in the coming years as a potential double-play partner with 2024 first overall pick Travis Bazzana.