Guardians Prospect George Valera Breaks Down His Mindset In The Box

Originally posted on Cleveland Guardians on SI
By Tommy Wild | Last updated 2/23/23

Cleveland Guardians fans are eager to see what George Valera can do at the Big League level. He's made a name for himself in the minors as a power-hitting lefty who is a threat to launch a home run at any time.

There's no doubt that Valera is physically talented and has a ton of potential. But the other half of the formula to being a successful Big League hitter is having a positive mindset. He isn't lacking this either.

In an interview with MLB.com's Jesse Borek, Valera broke down what he's thinking when he steps into the box. He said,

“When I’m in the box, I don’t care who you are,” Valera said. “I’m going to compete and I’m going to try to beat you. It doesn’t matter if you’re my mom or my dad, I’m going to try my best.

“I don’t really see it as Major League or Minor League pitchers. I just see it as competition and somebody I got to beat right now.”

This is exactly what a prospect needs to be thinking as they're on their journey to MLB. Valera is trying to make the most of any opportunity he is given whether that's in the minors, Spring Training, or winter league.

He certainly has made the most of each of these opportunities. Over Valera's four-year MiLB career, he has a batting average of .248 and an OPS of .834. Last season he hit 15 home runs over 90 games. In the 42 games he appeared with Triple-A Columbus, the lefty hit nine home runs.

If he continues to shine in the chances he's given then it'll be no time before we see him playing at Progressive Field.

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This article first appeared on Cleveland Guardians on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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