PT TOMORROW: AL Central - Key players to watch around the division

During All-Star week, the writers of Playing Time Tomorrow have been charged with identifying one “pivotal” batter and one “pivotal” pitcher for each of the teams in their divisions. Here are my picks for the American League Central. 

 

Cleveland Guardians

Hitter: Bo Naylor (C, CLE)

The team has gotten very little production from the catcher position this season. Mike Zunino (C, FA) opened the season as the starter but his struggles from last season carried over, as he registered a .578 OPS across 140 PA. The team wasn't counting on him as a long-term option but had hoped he could rebound from his 2022 disaster and hold the job until catcher of the future Naylor was ready to step in.

Naylor hit .253/.393/.498 with 13 HR and 2 SB in 270...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Connor Wong is one of several AL East catchers whose playing time outlook could be altered as teams seek upgrades at the trade deadline. Plus, a potential rotation upheaval in TOR, and Encarnacion-Strand emerging in BAL.
Jul 28 2026 3:05am
The Nationals bolstered their team for the stretch run and beyond by adding Connelly Early to their rotation, and all it cost them was Curtis Mead...and hopefully not their eternal souls. Plus: Acuña in ATL; SP in MIA; next men up at NYM; needs in PHI; more.
Jul 27 2026 8:39am
Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am

Tools