Guardians Shift Focus to Adding Impact to Their Offense

The Guardians have developed a reputation for employing a contact-oriented offensive strategy. They avoid swinging and missing, strive to minimize strikeouts, and focus on putting the ball in play. However, despite this approach, they face challenges in scoring runs.

Now, there’s a shift towards incorporating more impact into their game.

“We have the personnel to exceed our current performance,” remarked Guardians hitting coach Chris Valaika. “We need to break away from the mold because our organization has traditionally favored drafting players with strong decision-making skills and high contact rates. We must augment that with a greater emphasis on impactful play.”

To achieve this, they can’t rely solely on one player. Valaika provided insights on several hitters entering camp this week:

Player: Myles Straw

Profile: Over the past two years, Straw has maintained a batting average of .229 with a .580 OPS (67 OPS+) and just one home run. To secure his spot in center field, he must demonstrate that he has overcome these challenges.
Comment: “Myles has come in with increased physicality—he’s bulked up and become stronger, continuing the adjustments made over the offseason. He understands the need to compete for his position, showcasing his abilities and returning to his potential. His confidence has grown due to his improved physique, evident in the way the ball jumps off his bat. We anticipate a more formidable and determined Myles this season.”

Player: Gabriel Arias

Profile: Arias is a top contender for the shortstop position, although concerns linger about his performance against left-handed pitchers, as he struggled with a .083 batting average (9-for-108) in such matchups last year.
Comment: “Gabriel simply needed more playing time. Young players sometimes fixate on immediate results, attempting to force their way into the lineup, which can exacerbate issues. His difficulties against lefties were apparent, but his participation in winter ball was beneficial.”

Player: Andrés Giménez

Profile: Despite being the MVP of Cleveland’s 2022 season and earning a contract extension, Giménez struggled offensively for much of 2023, finding his rhythm only towards the end of the season.
Comment: “Andrés faced considerable pressure and expectations following his previous success and contract extension. He battled through a tough year, eventually rediscovering his form towards the end of the season. He has made positive adjustments this winter, and we hope to see that momentum carry over into the upcoming season.”

Player: Deyvison De Los Santos

Profile: As a Rule 5 Draft pick, De Los Santos fits well with Cleveland’s new focus on impact hitting. However, at only 20 years old and lacking experience above Double-A level, he faces challenges in remaining on the active roster for the entire season.
Comment: “There are certainly obstacles to overcome for Deyvison. However, José Ramírez has been instrumental in mentoring him, providing invaluable guidance. If Deyvison stays with us, manager Stephen Vogt will play a crucial role in managing expectations and emphasizing his potential impact despite potential growing pains transitioning from Double-A.”