– Age: 24 – Level: AAA
2008 Numbers: 100 games, 64 Runs, 17 HR, 88 RBI, .349 AVG, .948 OPS
The recently swooped up and signed free-agent Guzman from the . The Giants are looking at adding Guzman to the competition for 3B next season, competition he can handle.
Guzman has been tearing up the minor leagues in the last few seasons while making his way up to the AAA level.
In 2007 Guzman played for the A+ affiliate where he racked up 102 runs, 15 Hrs, and 112 RBI in 130.
In 2008, though suffering an injury midway through the season, Guzman was able to post solid numbers in AA with 57 runs, 15 HR, and 76 RBI before getting called up to AAA.
Guzman is smoking the ball in the Venezuelan Winter League right now with 10 HR, 51 RBI, and a 1.143 OPS in 42 games. Look for his hot bat to carry him into Spring Training.
Look for Guzman to compete in the wide-open 3B contest in San Francisco. He is maturing quickly at the plate and should produce in 2009.
Each week "Almost Ripe" features a maturing minor leaguer who could see major league time in the near future.
