Locked On Indians

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 ProblemOpening thoughts on Cleveland’s inability to find or develop impact bats. Jeff Elli