MLB teams value players who can run, field, and have other tools like a good arm, intangibles, work ethic and are a good clubhouse presence.
Those are all desirable traits.
However, when it comes to position players, they are required to hit.
The offensive profile is often what keeps a player on the roster or in the starting lineup.
In the case of Cleveland Guardians center fielder Myles Straw, his lack of hitting may cost him his roster spot.
Needing a space on the roster, the organization announced on Friday that they have placed him on waivers.
“Updates: Myles Straw’s roster spot is not guaranteed. He’s on waivers and has an option. Sam Hentges will start on the IL. Brayan Rocchio will get bulk of SS reps. Chase DeLauter’s time with the big-league club has ended. He was in depth camp, was never going to make the team,” Guardians insider Zack Meisel tweeted.
Updates:
Myles Straw’s roster spot is not guaranteed. He’s on waivers and has an option
Sam Hentges will start on the IL.
Brayan Rocchio will get bulk of SS reps.
Chase DeLauter’s time with the big-league club has ended. He was in depth camp, was never going to make the team. https://t.co/emsH8Sh0Db
Let’s focus on Straw here, the winner of the American League’s Gold Glove in center field in 2022.
His defense is amazing: he has range, and he is fearless back there.
He can also run, as he has accumulated 71 stolen bases in the last three years.
However, he is an offensive liability and the Guardians have some players who could play center field.
Straw posted a .597 OPS last year, and has a career .625 mark.
The good news for him is that there is a chance someone claims him, as he was actually having a good spring with a .345/.406/.448 line and a .854 OPS.
If no one claims him, he could return to the Guards but as outfield depth, probably in Triple-A.
It’s shocking to see him waived because he’s owed $4.5 million this season, $6 million in 2025, and $7 million in 2026, plus a $1.75 million buyout in 2027.
The next few days will be crucial for his future.