The Guardians just announced their lineup and Chase DeLauter will start in centerfield and bat seventh for his major league debut in game two against the Tigers in the Wildcard.
This is 100% the right move. I know it is hard to put a first-time MLB player in this spot. I know it may feel disruptive to the team (Angel Martinez and Daniel Schneemann would have been in line for this start). I know DeLauter hasn’t played centerfield this season. But, it’s win or go home. It’s now or never. So, here we are.
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Guardians’ centerfielders against right-handed pitchers this season had a 48 wRC+, which is half of league average production… it is essentially like batting Austin Hedges as your centerfielder. So, the gamble here makes perfect sense.
I am very happy that the front office and Stephen Vogt were bold enough to make this move, and I am also confident the whole team wants nothing more than to win this game. Don’t be surprised, however, if A.J. Hinch pulls Mize a little early and brings in his left-handed arms to try to get players like Valera, Manzardo, DeLauter and Kayfus out of the game for the inferior hitters the Guardians’ have who are right-handers. Don’t fall for it, Stephen.
For years, the Guardians have been drafting, developing and signing left-handed hitters so that the team is made up almost entirely of them. Now is not the time to back off of this philosophy. Ride these left-handed hitters as long as you possibly can and if there is an opportunity in the 8th or 9th to pinch-hit against a tough southpaw, ok. Otherwise, let them show what they can do.
Good luck, Chase, on your MLB debut. We have been waiting for this day!
