Earlier this week, the Cleveland Guardians made the call to keep top prospect Travis Bazzana off the Opening Day roster. While some fans hoped he might break camp with the team, this decision isn't exactly shocking.
The Guardians seem comfortable with Bazzana spending some time in Triple-A, likely for a month or two. If he performs well, we might see him join the big leagues by May or June, unless injuries speed up the timeline.
When Bazzana does make his debut, Cleveland will face some tough choices. He'll need regular playing time, which means decisions in the middle infield where Brayan Rocchio and Gabriel Arias currently hold the starting spots.
According to Guardians insider Cade Cracas, the team will have to choose between Rocchio and Arias to make room for Bazzana. Arias seems the most likely to be affected, potentially moving to a backup role or even out of the organization.
Rocchio's defensive skills give him an edge over Arias, and his offensive potential seems brighter too. Last season, Rocchio finished with a 77 wRC+, but after a stint in the minors, he improved to a 96 wRC+, hitting .257/.310/.391 from July onward.
Arias, on the other hand, started last season as a potential breakout star but ended with the same 77 wRC+. Things could change-Rocchio might regress, or Arias could finally have his breakout moment when Bazzana arrives.
If Arias struggles by May or June, his playing time-and possibly his roster spot-could be in jeopardy. The Guardians will need to keep a close eye on their infield dynamics as the season unfolds.