Are baseball prospect rankings really as reliable as we think? Let’s dive into the world of Cleveland Guardians prospects and challenge some of the conventional wisdom. While rankings are fun, they often leave me scratching my head—what’s the real story behind these lists? This isn’t your typical ranking piece; instead, it’s a deep dive into my observations of some Guardians prospects, including those I’ve watched firsthand last season. Spoiler alert: some big names won’t make this list, especially recent draftees. But here’s where it gets interesting...
Take Baseball America’s recent top 10 Guardians prospect list, for example. Travis Bazzana sits at No. 1, which isn’t surprising given he was the 2024 draft’s top pick. But is he truly Cleveland’s best prospect? Here’s the controversial part: I’m not so sure. While MLB Pipeline agrees, I’d argue Chase DeLauter deserves that spot—at least for now. DeLauter isn’t just a better prospect; he’s one of the most promising hitters to emerge from Cleveland’s farm system in years.
DeLauter has battled injuries, including foot issues, hamate bone surgery, and a sports hernia. Yet, he still hit .278 with a .859 OPS, 5 HR, and 21 RBI in just 149 Class AAA plate appearances. Over 583 pro plate appearances, he’s batting .302 with a .888 OPS, 20 HR, and 89 RBI. Standing at 6-foot-3, 235 pounds, this lefty hitter also boasts a strong arm and was a college closer, touching 92 mph. If that doesn’t scream elite prospect, I don’t know what does.
Now, let’s talk Bazzana. Last season, he batted .245 with a .813 OPS, 9 HR, and 39 RBI across 374 plate appearances in Class AA and AAA. His season was cut short by an oblique injury, which resurfaced in September, sidelining him for the Arizona Fall League. But here’s the thing—it’s way too early to write him off. Bazzana needs time to heal and maybe ease up on the self-imposed pressure.
Fans often compare him to Nick Kurtz, the No. 4 pick in the 2024 draft, who hit .290 with a 1.002 OPS and 36 HR for Oakland. Sure, Kurtz looks like a future star, but patience is key. Other 2024 draftees like Jac Caglianone (.157 for the Royals), Christian Moore (.198 for the Angels), and Cam Smith (.236, 9 HR for the Astros) remind us that development takes time. And this is the part most people miss: Bazzana might thrive if moved to the outfield, where his glove could shine more than at second base.
Now, let’s shift to a prospect I’m genuinely excited about: Ralphy Velazquez. At just 20 years old, he batted .265 with a .839 OPS, 22 HR, and 85 RBI between Class A and AA last season. What’s impressive? He hit .330 in 28 games at Class AA Akron, showcasing major power to the opposite field. Originally signed as a catcher, he’s now at first base, and his 104 strikeouts in 544 plate appearances are a solid ratio for a young power hitter. Baseball America ranks him No. 3, and I’d place him above Bazzana right now.
My favorite pitching prospect? Parker Messick. After raving about him last spring, he didn’t disappoint. Drafted in the second round in 2022, the lefty made his pro debut in 2023 and was promoted to Cleveland late in the 2025 season. In seven starts, he went 3-1 with a 2.72 ERA. His control, poise, and fastball with enough juice make him a standout. Could he be the key to freeing up another lefty, like Logan Allen, for a trade? It’s a bold thought, but worth considering.
Another pitcher who caught my eye is Josh Hartle, part of the three-team trade that brought Luis Ortiz to Cleveland. While Ortiz is entangled in the MLB gambling investigation, Hartle is a bright spot. At 6-foot-6, 207 pounds, he’s not a power pitcher, but his breaking stuff and poise are impressive. He went 10-3 with a 2.54 ERA in his first full pro season and reminded me a bit of Cliff Lee—yes, I said it. Most rankings place him in the 20s, but I’d put him closer to the top 10. Is he the next big thing? Only time will tell.
Then there’s the forgotten prospect, Juan Brito. Baseball America’s 2023 Prospect of the Year in the Guardians organization, Brito batted .256 with a .807 OPS, 21 HR, and 84 RBI in 2024. Injuries sidelined him in 2025, but at just 24, he’s far from done. A switch hitter with surprising power for his 5-foot-11 frame, he could be a solid major leaguer if he stays healthy.
Lastly, a shoutout to Austin Peterson. At 6-foot-6, 234 pounds, he looks like a flamethrower but relies on a sinker/slider combo with good control. Despite a 4.27 ERA in Class AAA in 2025, I believe he’ll make the majors. Do you agree, or is his age (26) a concern? Let’s debate it in the comments.
Oh, and if you’re in the area, come see me at the Westlake Barnes & Noble on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. I’ll be signing copies of my new Browns book, Why Can’t This Team Find a Quarterback? Let’s talk baseball—and maybe a little football too.
