Guardians target a rising shortstop phenom from one of baseball’s most legendary talent hotbeds.NL

The Cleveland Guardians have built a reputation as one of baseball’s most consistent pipelines for international talent, especially from Latin America. They’ve found success time and time again by identifying raw ability early, developing it with care, and giving young players the tools and time they need to grow. That trend looks set to continue with their latest international target: Karel Naranjo.

Naranjo, a switch-hitting shortstop out of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, is currently training with Mickey’s Prospect Academy – a name that’s become familiar in international scouting circles. While he won’t be eligible to sign until the international signing period opens on January 15, 2026, Cleveland is already considered the favorite to land him.

Now, let’s be clear – we’re still in the early stages of his journey. But the Guardians’ interest in Naranjo isn’t just about filling a roster spot in the lower minors.

It’s about investing in long-term upside, and that’s something Cleveland has done exceptionally well, especially with middle infielders. Think about the organization’s track record: they’ve consistently developed young infield talent into major-league contributors, thanks to a player-first approach that emphasizes patience, fundamentals, and fit.

That’s what makes Cleveland such a compelling landing spot for a player like Naranjo. At just 15 or 16 years old, prospects like him aren’t expected to be polished – they’re expected to be moldable.

And in an organization known for its developmental structure, that’s exactly the kind of environment where a young switch-hitting shortstop can thrive. The Guardians don’t rush their prospects.

They build them up. They let them grow into their game.

Of course, the road from international signee to major league debut is long, winding, and unforgiving. For every José Ramírez, there are dozens of players who never make it past rookie ball.

But that’s the reality of the international market – it’s not about guarantees. It’s about projection, potential, and patience.

So while Naranjo’s name might not be on many fans’ radars just yet, it’s worth remembering: this is how it starts. A name, a rumor, a connection to a franchise that knows how to turn raw talent into big-league production. If Naranjo does end up signing with Cleveland in January 2026, it’ll mark the beginning of a new chapter – one that could eventually lead to Progressive Field.

For now, he’s just another promising name in the Guardians’ ever-growing international notebook. But if history is any guide, he might not stay under the radar for long.