● Cleveland Guardians ★ 2022 MLB DRAFT RECAP ★....The Guardians decided to mix things up this year

[mjp28]

Cleveland Guardians 2022 MLB Draft Recap

The Guardians decided to mix things up a bit this year. Unlike 2021 when the club drafted 19 pitchers in 20 selections, Cleveland still added 13 hurlers to its system but also selected five outfielders, one catcher and two middle infielders. Four of the club’s draftees were out of high school, leaving the other 17 as collegiate players. Whether they have commitments to a college or have another year of eligibility left, Guardians director of amateur scouting Scott Barnsby is confident that the club will be able to sign all 21 of their picks. “We want to make sure they have opportunities for them whether it be on the mound or with at-bats,” Barnsby said. “We feel like we do and we’re excited to add these guys to the organization. So, we’re confident we’ll be able to get this group signed.” So much of this draft reflected the approach the club has seemed to take this season at the big league level, focusing on hitters who are more prone to collecting singles and doubles than smacking the long balls, while picking up more pitchers without “wow” stuff, but can use spin rates and command to pitch effectively. In simple terms: The Guardians stayed on brand. “It was an exciting three days,” Barnsby said. “Awful lot of fun to work through. Certainly when we get to this point, I think there’s a sigh of relief from the group because there’s some anxiety that builds up heading into the draft because you just want it to go perfect. And honestly, the contributions from so many people throughout the organization, just amazing.”

[mjp28]

Go to mlb.com  and DRAFT TRACKER for all of the picks.