Cleveland Guardians should make sure this player is in the squad for every game

There should be no concerns about making Cleveland Guardians first baseman Kyle Manzardo the starter for the remainder of 2024.

Manzardo has been the designated hitter since returning to the major leagues three days ago, and he has been in top form during that time, hitting six times in 11 at-bats, including two home runs.

Being considered a starter after three games is a challenge for anyone, but the reasoning goes beyond Manzardo's return to the major leagues and requires a closer look at his performance before the month began.

The Guardians acquired the highly touted prospect during the 2023 season in a last-minute deal with the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for Aaron Civale. One of the main reasons for Manzardo's inclusion in the trade was a decline in performance in the 2023 season. Cleveland hoped that the young talent would get back on track and return to his best form.

The 24-year-old was sent to Columbus after a disappointing start to his 2024 season.

Then, in August, the left-hander found his swing. In 25 games, he averaged .247, hit six home runs and walked 18.

The Guardians rank eighth among the 12 teams currently competing in the postseason in hitting home runs after the All-Star break, and given his recent success, the call-up could boost the team's home run total.

Not to mention, Guardians manager Stephen Vogt has already said that Manzardo will be used primarily as a DH in the lineup. Competition for that spot is anything but fierce. David Fry has the most at-bats at that position and has a .179 batting average over the past 30 days.

To see what a young hitter is capable of, he has to be able to get consistent reps, so there should be no reason to take Manzardo out of the lineup going forward.