The Guardians optioned Genao to minor-league camp Monday, Tim Stebbins of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Genao nabbed a spot on the Guardians' 40-man roster this offseason, but he was always destined to head back to the minors for more seasoning. The 21-year-old infielder was limited by a shoulder injury last season, but he's healthy now and should begin the year back at Double-A Akron.

Genao showed more full extension on his swings while with Aquilas in the Dominican Winter League, Keith Law of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Genao suffered a right shoulder injury during spring training last year, and the effects of the injury lingered throughout the regular season. After a boffo 2024, the 21-year-old shortstop dropped to a .259/.323/.359 slash line over 77 games at Double-A Akron. In winter ball, Genao improved to .325/.387/.386 over 26 games for Aquilas, suggesting he regained strength and confidence in the shoulder. He might eventually move to second base in the majors, but his improved defense at Akron in 2025 suggest shortstop is still a possibility. Genao's a bounce-back candidate for 2026 and expected to reach Triple-A Columbus.

Genao is in extended spring training while he recovers from a torn meniscus in his right knee, Jim Callis of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

One of Cleveland's top recent international signees, the switch-hitting Genao slashed .322/.394/.416 with two home runs and six steals in the Arizona Complex League. He figures to spend the year at Single-A Lynchburg once healthy.