Why Chase DeLauter has been far from a typical rookie for the Cleveland Guardians

If you were looking for signs of a "rookie wall" or an early-season slump from Chase DeLauter, you’re going to be looking for a long time.

After putting the entire league on notice with an historic opening week performance, DeLauter has settled into a rhythm that is frankly terrifying for opposing pitchers.

Guardians fans have spent the last few seasons begging for consistency in the outfield, and DeLauter has spent the first month-plus of the season providing a masterclass in how to anchor a big-league lineup.

Chase DeLauter has looked the part for the Guardians this season

The 15-Game foundation

Consistency is the name of the game in MLB, and DeLauter just put on a clinic, as he had reached base in 15 straight games prior to last night's 0-for-5 performance against the Twins.

While that streak technically came to an end in the Guardians' sluggish loss, he still showed a poise beyond his years across that streak.

In total, he finsihed that 15-game span with a .400 batting average (22-for-55) with one home run and 11 RBI to go along with five doubles and one game-winning triple.

Even though his "home run" power has dipped slightly compared to when he smashed four homers in his first week in the bigs, his approach didn't skip a beat.

DeLauter has shown an incredible ability to take tough pitches, work deep counts, and find ways to get on base even when he isn't barreling everything.

By The Numbers: Elite production

Take a look at the stat line DeLauter's carrying into the second week of May: .295/.378/.527 slashline with six home runs, 23 RBI and 10 doubles.

He's also walking at a nearly 13% clip, which is unheard of for a guy seeing MLB pitching for the first time in his career.

The most impressive part?

There has yet to be a point where DeLauter has looked like a rookie. He doesn't chase bad sliders, doesn't get rattled by high velocity and handles the No. 2 spot in the order like he’s been there for a decade.

He’s exactly the "professional" bat the Guardians have been searching for to protect José Ramírez.

A 15-game on-base streak is hard for anyone, let alone a 24-year-old in his midst of his first MLB full season. The streak might be over, but the momentum isn't. DeLauter has brought a level of stability to the top of the order that allows Steven Kwan and Ramírez to breathe.

If this is what DeLauter looks like in May, I can’t wait to see what he’s doing in the heat of August. The power will come and go, but that .905 OPS tells you everything you need to know: The kid belongs.

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