Kyle Manzardo needs to be the starting first baseman for Cleveland. The roster decision consistently leaves out Manzardo or has him at DH. Despite showing that he can provide offensive spark, Manzardo is mostly asked to come off the bench. The 25-year-old spoke on how he stays ready to enter a game when asked.
Manzardo talks about being ready to come off the bench when he’s needed. #Guardians #ClevelandGuardians #cincinnatireds #MLB #CLE 🎥 @nats_sportschat pic.twitter.com/e8KXJuXYy4
— NEO Sports Insiders (@NEOSportsInside) June 12, 2025
Currently Carlos Santana gets the nod at first base. Not to undermine the fact that Santana is a gold glover the position is a cornerstone both defensively and offensively. With the emergence of Manzardo, a compelling case presents itself for elevating the young standout into the role of everyday starter. His defensive skills will progress with consistent playing time. Manzardo’s potential makes him a prime candidate at first base.
Photo by Charles Murray
Skipper Stephen Vogt is obsessed with pitching matchups. Recently on July 21, Manzardo was batting cleanup. He was in the game as the designated hitter and was producing well with a hit and a home run. However, in the next inning Vogt put David Fry in to pinch hit for Manzardo. Fry didn’t produce at the plate but that’s not the issue, it’s messing with the solid game Manzardo was having. This is just one example as the decision to remove Manzardo, for a pitching matchup, occurs often.
Manzardo is a coach’s dream. A left-handed hitter with a compact swing, Manzardo combines discipline at the plate with the ability to make consistent, hard contact. He possesses a rare mix of patience and aggression, waiting for his pitch but not shying away from punishing mistakes.
No he’s not as reliable defensively as Santana. While first base may not carry the same defensive demands as other positions, a steady glove at first saves errors, and can turn would-be singles into outs. Manzardo is diligent in improving his defensive game. Whether it be taking extra reps pregame he shows commitment to honing his defensive skills which will improve with consistent play.
Photo by Charles Murray
While the veteran Santana may offer experience, it comes with diminishing offense. Manzardo presents a higher ceiling and greater long-term upside. Furthermore, giving him the everyday job now allows him to develop at the highest level, accelerating his growth.
By handing Manzardo the keys to first base, the organization would signal a commitment to development, and a serious path to consistency. With this season being the polar opposite of last year fans are questioning the organization’s vision for the future. Planting Manzardo at first could signal a positive sign of moving forward.
The argument for Manzardo as the starting first baseman is as strong as his swing. He offers the promise of stability at a crucial corner of the diamond. The time has come to let him shine. He’s earned it.
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