Cleveland Eyes Fast-Rising Shortstop Talent Carrying the One Trait Their Farm System Desperately Needs.NL

The Cleveland Guardians have long made their name by building from within. While some clubs chase stars on the open market, the Guardians have leaned into a different formula – one that prioritizes scouting, development, and patience. And based on the latest buzz, that strategy isn’t just intact – it’s evolving.

Word is, Cleveland is already looking well down the road, targeting a name that might not be familiar to many fans just yet: Santiago Sanquiz. The young shortstop prospect out of Yaracuy, Venezuela, is generating early attention, and the Guardians are reportedly leading the charge to sign him when the time comes.

Sanquiz, a switch-hitter training at the respected Cardenales Academy, won’t be eligible to sign until the 2028 international signing period. That’s more than two years away, but the fact that he’s already on Cleveland’s radar – and, by many accounts, near the top of their wishlist – says a lot about the impression he’s making.

Now, let’s be clear: projecting 13- to 14-year-old talent is never an exact science. There’s a long road between promise and production.

But in international scouting circles, early identification is everything. And when a player like Sanquiz starts turning heads this far out, it usually means there’s something special in the toolkit – whether it’s advanced instincts, smooth defensive actions, or a polished approach from both sides of the plate.

The Guardians’ interest here fits their blueprint to a tee. This is an organization that’s consistently found value in international markets, unearthing talent others might overlook or simply not yet recognize. Their developmental pipeline has produced a steady stream of big-league contributors, and they’ve built a reputation for helping young players maximize their potential once they’re in the system.

That’s why a player like Sanquiz landing on their radar is worth paying attention to. It’s not just about raw ability – it’s about projecting who he could become with the right coaching, structure, and opportunity. And if history is any guide, Cleveland knows how to turn potential into performance.

There’s still a long way to go before anything becomes official. Sanquiz will need to stay healthy, continue refining his game, and navigate the next few years of development – all while carrying the weight of growing expectations. But if the Guardians are indeed the frontrunners here, it’s a sign they believe his ceiling is worth the wait.

For a franchise that thrives on long-term vision and smart investment in young talent, Santiago Sanquiz might just be the next name to watch.