The Guardians are reportedly set to promote one of their best hitting prospects: Kyle Manzardo. After a strong first month that saw Manzardo belt 19 extra-base hits over 29 games in Triple-A, the power-hitting first baseman will join a Guardians team that’s tied for sixth in the league in runs scored as of May 5.
A Look at Manzardo
The Guardians acquired first baseman Kyle Manzardo from the Rays last summer in a major deal that saw Aaron Civale go to Tampa. For the Rays, the move made sense, given Tampa’s immediate need for pitching. Cleveland, meanwhile, picked up a bat who could help fill a power void in the Guardians lineup.
A former second-round pick back in 2021, Manzardo slugged 22 home runs over 91 games in his 2022 season but injuries curtailed his production in the Minors last season. In Triple-A, Manzardo hit .237/.337/.464 with 17 home runs and 45 extra-base hits over 97 games.
Manzardo made up for lost time in the Arizona Fall League last year and blasted six home runs in 2023. And in his first 29 games of 2024, Manzardo posted a strong 1.017 OPS with Columbus (AAA).
Manzardo is a strong first baseman with immense raw power. However, arguably his most valuable tool is his eye. The 23-year-old consistently works counts and he posted a very respectable 13.4% BB% rate in the Minors, which would rate as well above average at the MLB level.
In an analytical age, Manzardo fits right in. After over a year in Triple-A, Manzardo’s set to make his MLB debut as a Guardian, joining Jose Ramirez and Andres Gimenez.
Kyle Manzardo will join the Guardians as outfielder Steven Kwan is set to hit the IL. The news of Manzardo’s call-up came shortly after fellow prospect Chase DeLauter, currently at Akron (AA), fractured his surgically repaired foot.
Analysis
Manzardo may very well be the Guardians’ first baseman of the future if things work out at the MLB level. Josh Naylor, off to a strong start in 2024, has just one year left of arbitration eligibility before he can hit the market.
But for now, the addition of Manzardo won’t replace Kwan’s contact skills — but may be able to replicate his ability to get on base. Kwan entered play with a .404 OBP, and the Guardians outfielder scored 28 runs over 32 games.
Getting on base is a skill and Manzardo’s done that in spades during his Minor League career. Now, the Guardians will need that skill as Cleveland looks to fend off the Royals, Tigers, and a surging Twins team in the AL Central.
Fantasy Outlook
Manzardo does have significant raw power and his ability to get on base could mean he gets time in the top third of the Guardians lineup while Kwan is out.
AL-only players should key in on Manzardo, and even mixed leagues players may also want to consider the first baseman.