The Call is In: C.J. Kayfus set make big league debut for the Guardians

Guardians fans, get ready for a fresh face in the lineup.

On Friday night, multiple reporters on the team's beat confirmed an earlier report from Guardians Prospective saying that Cayfus was set to be called up by Cleveland.

Kayfus, 23, has been one of Cleveland's best hitters in the minor leagues this year, and will now look to make an immediate impact in the big leagues.

A third-round pick from the University of Miami in the 2023 draft, Kayfus has done nothing but hit since turning pro. He's been an absolute force at every level, and his numbers speak for themselves.

After a stellar first full season in 2024, he's continued to rake this year. He opened the year by hitting .364 in 18 games with Double-A before earning a quick bump to Triple-A Columbus. He hasn't slowed down since getting promoted, as he put up a strong .283/.367/.526 slash line with 13 home runs and 14 doubles in 289 plate appearances.

While some scouts have noted a bit of swing-and-miss in his game, Kayfus hasn't let that stop him thanks to a great approach and knack for getting on base. His success at the highest level of the minors has landed him on a number of top prospect lists, with both Baseball America and MLB Pipeline including him in the back half of their Top 100 rankings.

He also represented the Guardians in the Futures Game earlier this year

At 6'0" and 192 pounds, Kayfus isn't built like a typical power-hitting first baseman, but his bat has always been his calling card. He's a natural hitter with a smooth left-handed swing who has consistently produced at every stop, from his days as an amateur to his current hot streak in Triple-A.

Kayfus also brings some valuable defensive versatility to the team. While he's considered an above-average defender at first base, he also has experience in both corner outfield spots. His arm strength is a bit of a question mark, which might limit him to left field, but his overall athleticism gives the Guardians' options.

Kayfus isn't one of the 40-man roster, so the Guardians will need to make some kind of roster move to add him to the roster.

The Guardians still have a hole in their roster after their quiet trade deadline, so now is the perfect time to give Kayfus a major league shot.

While the Guardians might need to get creative to find him playing time, his track record suggests he could be a valuable piece of the lineup as the team pushes for a postseason spot.