CLEVELAND – Former top prospect George Valera is staying with the Cleveland Guardians after a tumultuous few weeks. After being designated for assignment and then non-tendered on Friday, the Guardians re-signed the outfielder to a Minor League contract on Monday.
Valera, who was once ranked among the Guardians’ top prospects as recently as 2022 by MLB Pipeline, has yet to make his Major League debut. Although he had been on the 40-man roster since that season, injuries derailed his 2023 campaign. He was sidelined early in the year due to injury, only returning to form in the second half of the season. In August, Valera impressed, hitting .304 with a 1.018 OPS, seven home runs, and 17 RBIs.
However, the situation became complicated. Valera’s strong performance caught the attention of the team, and it seemed likely he would be called up in September. With the Guardians needing to make room for a returning Alex Cobb on September 1, the decision came down to Valera or Kyle Manzardo. While Manzardo had a brief stint in the majors earlier in the year, Valera was still waiting for his chance. But with Valera out of options for 2024, the Guardians knew that if he didn’t make the Opening Day roster, he would need to be designated for assignment. In the end, Cleveland opted to call up Manzardo, who hit two home runs in his first game back.
Unfortunately for Valera, his season ended abruptly when he injured his knee while playing for Triple-A Columbus in September. He ruptured the patellar tendon in his right knee, requiring surgery and a recovery period of six to nine months. Given his medical history, the Guardians were cautious about committing a 40-man roster spot to an injured player who might not return until mid-2024. As a result, they designated him for assignment, making him a free agent.
Although Valera was briefly out of the organization, he ultimately agreed to return on a Minor League deal, keeping alive the possibility of his future with the Guardians. While other teams may express interest, a reunion makes sense for both sides. The Guardians still see potential in Valera and, despite their need for outfield depth, are open to giving him a shot when he’s healthy. While the team has Steven Kwan in left field and Lane Thomas likely in right, other outfield spots remain up for grabs. Valera’s return could offer the Guardians the depth and flexibility they need, and the team may offer the best opportunity for him to make it to the majors, especially as he recovers from surgery.
Looking ahead, Valera’s future with the Guardians remains uncertain but promising. The outfield situation in Cleveland still has many unanswered questions, and once Valera is healthy, he could provide significant depth for a team in need. While his journey to the big leagues has been delayed, Valera’s potential remains high, and a healthy return could give him the opportunity he’s been waiting for.
