The start of George Valera and Petey Halpin’s careers couldn’t be less different. Valera was signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2017 and quickly rose the ranks to become the team’s top prospect before injuries derailed his ascension.
Meanwhile, the Guardians drafted Halpin in the third round of the 2020 draft and he's quietly risen through the team’s ranks before being added to the 40-man roster ahead of this season.
But even if their journeys aren’t similar, the way they can impact the Guardians’ postseason race thanks to Nolan Jones’ injury.
George Valera and Petey Halpin could be postseason X-factors for the Guardians
Over the weekend, the Guardians placed Jones on the 10-day injured list, which opens up a huge hole in right field.