It was Kayfus’ performances in two years in the highly regarded Cape Cod Summer League that convinced the Guardians to draft him. He was a league All Star in 2022. Kayfus was a third round, 2023 draft pick the Guardians, signing out of the University of Miami. He received a $700,000 signing bonus.

The left-handed hitter has garnered plenty of attention in the minors for how hard he hits the ball, and that was apparent in his first MLB game. In Kayfus’ first at-bat, he ripped a ball with an exit velocity of 97.7 mph to shortstop, which brought in a run.

C.J. Kayfus had to make a few quick phone calls and get to Cleveland. It didn't quite all go to plan, but it worked out in the end before his debut.