The Cleveland Guardians currently hold a 75-55 record and are fighting off AL the Kansas City Royals and the Minnesota Twins for the AL Central crown. The Guardians emerged as a sneaky good team, but they’ve also put together one the best farm systems in baseball. According to the most recent rankings by MLB Pipeline, they ranks #4 overall in terms of minor league strength.
Number 52 overall on the list is first baseman, Kyle Manzardo. He also ranks #3 in a strong Guardians system, who account for a total of six players in the MLB Pipeline Top 100. Manzardo was drafted in the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft by the Tampa Bay Rays out of Washington State. Quickly climbing the minor league ranks, Manzardo made to Triple-A Durham in 2023, prior to being traded to Cleveland for pitcher Aaron Civale at the July 31 deadline.
Manzardo finished the 2023 season with 17 home runs and 55 runs batted in, playing in 97 games. After a hot Spring Training in Arizona, he started the 2024 season very strong in Columbus. In his first 29 games with the Clippers, Manzardo hit .3o3 with nine home runs and 20 RBIs. Injuries in Cleveland prompted a quick call-up on May 6th. He largely stepped into the DH role.
Unfortunately, Manzardo’s 30 games in Cleveland didn’t go as well as hoped. He had 17 hits in 82 at-bats (.207 BA), knocking in seven runs. However, he’s regained his footing, stepping back into his role in Columbus in mid-June. To date, Manzardo has put up 18 HRs with 45 RBIs and a .928 OPS in 79 games.
There are a few questions going forward for Tyler Manzardo. First of all, his stint with the Guardians does not necessarily mean he’s not close to big league ready. Note, Jackson Holliday‘s early season call-up proved premature, but his return to the majors tells a different story.
Secondly, Manzardo may have to expand his versatility in the field. As a first baseman, he’s going to hit a road block with Guardians All-Star Josh Naylor. Stepping into the designated hitter role is fine, if hit bat continues to carry the weight. However, he may need to explore a move to the outfield to open up his options.
Nonetheless, Cleveland fans should keep an eye on Tyler Manzardo, as he’s likely to be a mainstay at Progressive Field in the years to come.
(All photos were taken by Wayne Riegle at the Columbus Clippers vs Indianapolis Indians game on 8/22/24)
