Jaison Chourio: Guardians' Prospect Poised for a Breakout Year
It’s easy to forget that Jaison Chourio, the promising Guardians outfield prospect, is just 20 years old. Since signing as an international free agent in 2022, Chourio has already logged four seasons in the minors, steadily honing his craft despite being too young to enjoy a post-game drink.
Last year, Chourio faced some challenges that dulled his shine, but his potential remains undeniable. With a big 2026 season, he could edge even closer to his MLB debut.
Chourio, the younger sibling of Brewers standout Jackson Chourio, made waves in 2024 with a stellar performance at Single-A Lynchburg. His .269/.414/.398 slash line, along with five homers, 58 RBIs, and 44 steals, put him on the map.
However, a shoulder injury early last season slowed his momentum. Playing across High-A and Rookie Ball, Chourio hit .237, with just two homers, 22 RBIs, and nine steals over 87 games. The expectations were high, and his performance didn’t quite match up.
The most concerning aspects of his 2025 season were the noticeable drops in bat speed and exit velocity, likely linked to the shoulder issue. But there’s a silver lining-Chourio seemed to find his groove in the Venezuelan Winter League, batting .323 over 46 games for Aguilas del Zulia. Though he only hit two home runs, his 22 RBIs, nine steals, and 25 walks against 31 strikeouts signal a return to form.
Healthy and ready, Chourio embodies what the Guardians value in their prospects: keen batting eye, solid defense, and above-average speed on the bases.
This season is crucial for Chourio. Despite his youth, he’ll be eligible for the Rule 5 Draft after the season, forcing the Guardians to make a key decision about his future. While he might not crack the major league roster just yet, a strong 2026 could cement his place in the Guardians’ evolving outfield plans.