Cleveland Guardians’ search for impactful bats prompts a new strategy—can ramping up international signings and targeting under-the-radar power hitters like Seiya Suzuki finally solve their offensive drought? Jeff Ellis analyzes the latest trends in MLB hitter development, comparing the effectiveness of college, high school, and international prospects, and exposes why safe draft picks haven’t delivered for Cleveland.

Trade talk heats up as Jeff Ellis explores Suzuki and Tyler Soderstrom as potential upgrades, weighing trade scenarios and their potential fit in the Guardians’ outfield. The episode also revisits the pivotal 2016 MLB Draft, spotlighting Cleveland’s successes with arms like Shane Bieber and Aaron Savalli while questioning missed opportunities, including the decision to pass on local talent Sean Murphy. Is it time for the Guardians to rethink their formula for building a contender?

0:00 – Guardians’ Hitting Problem

Opening thoughts on Cleveland’s inability to find or develop impact bats. Jeff Ellis introduces the core dilemma and provides background context on the organization’s struggles and approach with hitters from the majors to the minors.

10:24 – Finding Impact Bats: Data and Strategy

Deep dive into where impact hitters come from (college, high school, international), analysis of development versus scouting, and how the Guardians can adjust their draft and international strategies for position players and pitching.

17:20 – Trade Targets for Guardians

Potential offseason trade targets for the Guardians’ outfield (focus on Seiya Suzuki and Tyler Soderstrom), analysis of fit and trade packages, and a brief discussion of free agency options.

21:00 – 2016 Draft Retrospective

Evaluation of the 2016 MLB draft for the Guardians, including successes, misses, and lessons for the organization’s draft philosophy.

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