When MLB held the inaugural Spring Breakout showcase game last March, the Guardians’ roster included several prospects who became key contributors in their run to the 2024 ALCS. That included Kyle Manzardo and Jhonkensy Noel,

Cleveland Guardians pitching prospect Parker Messick shows his elite potential during MLB's Spring Breakout Showcase.

Genao batted .330 (.878 OPS) with 38 doubles and 10 HR between Lynchburg and Lake County last season. He’ll turn 21 on May 19. He’s a switch-hitting shortstop who seems born to play baseball. Nearly every move is fluid and confident. In some ways, he reminds me of a very young Julio Franco — although that’s probably an unfair label to put on Genao.

From Thursday to Sunday, each MLB team will play a game against another squad. It won’t be a regular spring training game, though: it will boast each organization’s best prospects. The initiative, called ‘Spring Breakout,