Advanced stats say this Guardians slugger is primed for a big second half originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Cleveland Guardians are right in the thick of things in the American League Central. While they have the same number of wins as the Chicago White Sox, the Sox edge out the Guardians in terms of win percentage.And with the return of Munetaka Murakami, Cleveland knows they are going to have to be at their best the rest of the way out if they want to overtake the South Siders.Luckily for the Guardians, they did just get back their big bopper, Jose Ramirez, after he spent a good chunk of time on the IL after fracturing his left hamate bone during a swing. An injury that has become quite common across hitters.MORE:Guardians' Gavin Williams achieves rare Immaculate Inning vs. TwinsAdvanced stats say this Guardians slugger is primed for a big second halfOne player who may not be the biggest name, but is certainly known around Cleveland, is Brayan Rocchio. He has been playing well this season and could be one to watch during the second half.With his elite glove and hot bat, Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly projects he could have a massive breakout the rest of the way."Not only does Rocchio have 10 outs above average at shortstop, but he's driven in 47 runs and has a 3.1 WAR. According to FanGraphs, Rocchio's WAR is tied with All-Star CJ Abrams, and among qualified shortstops, trails only Bobby Witt Jr., Otto Lopez and Elly De La Cruz. Despite currently having a neutral run differential, the Guardians find themselves atop the AL Central with the White Sox. Rocchio's strong all-around campaign is a major reason why."Rocchio is a big reason why Cleveland has remained competitive this season, and he could be a major reason why they either win the division or hold onto one of the top wild-card spots in the AL.More MLB news:Yankees can pivot to .712 OPS Reds catcher if Ryan Jeffers, Hunter Goodman trades don't work3 Cubs hitters who could be logical trade targets for MarinersMariners' Emerson Hancock rumor throws twist into Luis Castillo trade talksBrayan Bello continues to thrive in relief as Red Sox face another roster decision