Guardians Outfield Prospect Keeps Mashing In Puerto Rico
December 5, 2024
By Andres Chavez
When people talk about the Cleveland Guardians’ best prospect, Johnathan Rodriguez rarely gets mentioned.
They discuss Chase DeLauter, Angel Genao, Juan Brito, Jaison Chourio, Angel Martinez and more.
However, it’s not an exaggeration when we say that Rodriguez is the one with the most power, and that tool wins games.
Yes, his swing might have holes, but as long as he shows off his power, Rodriguez will have a chance to enjoy an MLB career.
After being named the International League (Triple-A) MVP in 2024 thanks to a .301 batting average, 29 home runs and 94 RBI, Rodriguez is currently playing Winter Ball in Puerto Rico.
Needless to say, he is enjoy an amazing stretch there, too.
“Cleveland #Guardians OF prospect Johnathan Rodriguez drove in two more runs tonight with a 2-run double in the 1st inning in @LBPRC action for his club Gigantes de Carolina. Rodriguez has now driven in 12 runs over his last 3 games! 7-12 3R 1(2B) 3HR 12RBI 1BB .583 AVG,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Seven hits and 12 RBI in three games is the stuff of legends.
Rodriguez, with three home runs already in Puerto Rico, keeps enjoying a truly breakout year.
Despite the aforementioned Triple-A numbers and a 140 wRC+ (40 percent better than the league average hitter), he didn’t really do much with his 40 MLB plate appearances this year.
Rodriguez hit .129 with a 63 wRC+, and was eventually demoted.
We can all agree that 40 trips to the plate is not enough to write him off, though.
Right now, there is an opening in the Guardians’ right field and Rodriguez could be one of the candidates to fill it.
He has a future in the majors.
The role is still up in the air and will depend on how often he strikes out.
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