The Cleveland Guardians made a somewhat surprising move on August 7 and claimed former Oakland Athletic outfielder, Ramon Laureano , off waivers after he was designated for assignment.
This move seemed puzzling on the surface. Why would the Guardians pick up a veteran when they committed to play their rookies? Isn't the outfield already full of players who need to prove themselves?
The easy answer to all of these questions is that the Guardians have a number of injuries right now and adding another bat helps with depth.
However, Laureano's time in Cleveland may not just be one fans remember only when they look at his Baseball Reference page 10 years from now. Laureano brings an interesting skill set to the team and he could end up being part of their future.
Laureano has played in six games for the Guardians since being picked up by the team. He hasn't been incredible in that time only batting .174 while also driving in a pair of RBI and a couple of doubles too.
This is too small of a sample size to judge whether or not there's a spot for him moving forward. We have to go back to his time in Oakland to see his true strengths.
Laureano has historically been tremendous at hitting left-handed pitching. He's hit .271 with an OPS of .790 against Southpaws in his career with a BABIP of .346.
Left-handed pitching is something the Guardians are known for struggling against which opposing teams have exposed time and time again. One player won't fix all of this, but it certainly is a start.
Laureano could easily platoon in the outfield and start when a lefty is on the mound. He's a more than solid defender which also makes him a great bench piece to have as well.
Perhaps, the Guardians only view Ramon as a short-term answer to the injury bug circulating through the clubhouse. But there will be a spot on this team for him unless Will Brennan, Oscar Gonzalez, or Myles Straw turns into a left-handed pitching specialist in the next month and a half.
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