Prospect Watch: Switch-hitting infielder could be next impact player for Cleveland Guardians

There has been a recurring theme in Cleveland during their extended period of competitive play dates back to the pre-Guardians days. That theme being, Cleveland receiving a certain level of production from switch-hitting infielders.

Most of the focus belongs to the likes of Jose Ramirez and Franciso Lindor, as they performed at levels expected from those considered to be the caliber of franchise cornerstones, but when it comes to who may be the next player who fits this description, there is one player in particular who was part of a list of potential breakout candidates.

As part of a list appearing on CBS Sports put together by R.J. Anderson, Guardians' prospect Welbyn Francisca was one of five players named as players to watch. It was his performance for the Lynchburg Hillcats last season that resulted in landing on this list, "Francisca, who won't celebrate his 19th birthday until May, appears to be next in line. He ended last season with his first taste of action outside the complex, hitting .325/.402/.402 against Carolina League competition that was on average 2.5 years his senior.". Granted, it is only A-Ball, but Francisca being able to hold his own and not be overwhelmed by facing players older than him is very encouraging for what his future might hold.

There is another aspect of Francisca's game that aligns with Cleveland's preferred offensive profile that Anderson made sure to make mention of, "Francisca's game is currently built around taking walks, making a lot of contact, and finding holes with his ground balls -- that last part limits his slugging capacity, making it something he's likely to focus on heading forward.".

When evaluating the players who have experienced the most success in Cleveland over the years, they possess most, if not all, of these traits. The ability to make contact at a high rate while owning a strong understanding of the strike zone has taken priority over those with a ton of power in their profile. The Guardians clearly believe it is much more realistic for a player like Francisca to develop power than for someone who already has it to become more patient and have a better eye in the box.

Francisca is still a few years away from even being close to making Cleveland's major league roster, but if he is able to continue progressing through their minor league system while posting similar numbers, it will not be long before he is the next prospect that everyone has their eyes on.