Amed Rosario is a Cleveland Guardians shortstop who presents an interesting evaluation challenge for the team's future plans. Despite being a slightly above-average hitter with excellent baserunning skills, questions remain about his long-term role with the organization.

Key Performance Metrics:

• OPS+: 107 (14th among qualified shortstops)
• 2023 Home Runs: 8
• Defensive Metrics: Positive DRS but negative OAA
• Age: 26

Current Situation:

• Approaching free agency
• Projected market value: $12-15M per year
• Jose Ramirez has publicly supported extending Rosario
• Organization values his leadership and clubhouse presence

Future Considerations:

• Cleveland has three Top-100 shortstop prospects
• Brayan Rocchio (recently promoted to AAA) offers superior defense
• Potential utility role unlikely due to defensive limitations
• Limited power development despite athletic ability

The Guardians face a crucial decision regarding Rosario's future. While he provides solid current value, the team's deep prospect pool and Rosario's performance limitations make a long-term extension questionable. His struggles in high-leverage situations and defensive inconsistency suggest the team might be better served developing their younger talent.

Originally a player with high upside, Rosario has settled into being a serviceable but unspectacular shortstop. While he could start for Cleveland next season, the emergence of prospects like Rocchio may signal it's time for a change.

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