Title: Gabby Arias: Emerging Fight for Cleveland Guardians' Second Base Position
The Cleveland Guardians are on the hunt for a new second baseman as they kick off spring training in Goodyear, Arizona, following Andres Gimenez's departure to the Toronto Blue Jays. After three stellar Gold Glove seasons with the Guardians, Gimenez, a glove wizard, was traded to improve Cleveland's offense and move away from a defensive-focused infielder.
The trade also involves considering Gimenez's remaining contract, signed in 2023 for a hefty seven-year, $106 million deal. He has five more years to go, with payouts of:
-$10,571,429 - 2025-$18,714,429 - 2026-$23,571,429 - 2027-$23,571,429 - 2028
Gimenez has saved many runs for the Guardians' pitchers and will surely be missed at second base. But as one scout points out, there is a promising candidate in the organization ready to step in.
Enter Gabriel Arias, still just turning 25 in April. Originally signed as an International free agent by the San Diego Padres in 2016, the Guardians presently have a formidable contender for the second base spot.
Arias has substantial competition, including Gabriel Arias (24, R), Tyler Freeman (25, R), Daniel Schneemann (27, L), Angel Martinez (22, B-B), and Juan Brito (23, B-B).
While Arias may lack Gimenez's skill level, the scout sees potential for him to play at second base, improving the team's pitching. Arias boasts excellent range and an exceptional arm that could significantly benefit the Guardians' pitching staff.
However, the question remains: can Arias produce enough offensively to secure an everyday second-baseman position? His limited offensive output is a concern, but his recent success at Triple-A Columbus and the Venezuelan Winter League has hinted at improvements in his hitting skills.
Arias has displayed improved bat control, stronger power, and better contact. He has posted impressive batting averages in both locations. If he can maintain this form, Arias could be the ideal candidate to replace Gimenez until Juan Brito's service time no longer factors into the equation.
But if Arias continues to chase sliders outside and fastballs up in the zone, he may miss his chance to shine. Brito, who can hit, could potentially fill in at second base later in the season.
Arias may ultimately capture the shortstop role this season, a position he lost to Brayan Rocchio during spring training last year. Time will tell whom the starting shortstop will be, depending on who hits for the Guardians.
In conclusion, Gabriel Arias's defensive skills and potential offensive improvements make him an attractive option for the Guardians' second-base spot in the near future. His ability to adapt to new roles and increase his offensive contributions could make him a valuable asset for the Cleveland team.
[1]: "MLB pipeline: Prospect of the day: Gabriel Arias"[4]: "Guardians Today: Training camp notes day 15"
The trade of Andres Gimenez has presented an opportunity for the Guardians to explore the financial implications of his contract, signed for a substantial seven-year, $106 million deal. Meanwhile, the team's search for a new second baseman has opened up possibilities for prospects like Gabriel Arias, who boasts impressive defensive skills and potential for offensive improvement.
