Second base prospect named Guardians' most MLB-Ready

Following the Cleveland Guardians' decision to trade Andres Gimenez to the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this offseason, an opening in their starting lineup has been created that needs to be filled with a sense of urgency. While there are a handful of options that could be placeholders, an option that could hold down the fort for more than just this upcoming season has been identified.

In Joel Reuter's Each MLB Team's Most MLB-Ready Prospect Entering 2025 on Bleacher Report, 23-year-old Juan Brito was selected as Cleveland's entry. Reuter believes that his strong season for the Columbus Clippers last season shows potential to take over for the Guardians in 2025.

"He hit .256/.365/.443 with 40 doubles, 21 home runs, 84 RBI and 13 steals in 144 games at Triple-A last season, and the Guardians showed a willingness to roll with an inexperienced middle infielder when Brayan Rocchio won the shortstop job last year.", wrote Reuter as he makes a case for Brito at second.

On top of Brito's performance at Triple-A last season, Reuter also made sure to note that the Guardians (eventually) handed the starting shortstop gig to Brayan Rocchio last year, showing that they are comfortable with going with someone who does not have a lengthy track record of starting in the majors.

The Guardians did have a few players moonlight at second base last year, none of which are particularly intriguing. Gabriel Arias, Daniel Schneemann, Angel Martinez, and Tyler Freeman all have seen some time at second in 2024, and if the Guardians decide that they would feel more comfortable with somoeone with major league experience manning second to start the season, one of these underwhelming options would get the nod here.

When it comes to the big picture, most expect whoever starts at second this season is just a temporary option until Travis Bazzana is ready to make his MLB Debut. The Guardians selected Bazzana with the first overall pick in the 2024 MLB June Amateur Draft. They believe they will be the second baseman of the future for years to come once he gets his chance, that is, unless someone else proves more than capable of handling second base duties or if the organization decides that he is better off playing a different position entirely. Until that time comes, the Guardians are expected to roll with temporary options, and that includes Brito as soon as this upcoming season.