The Cleveland Guardians have made significant roster changes ahead of the 2025 MLB season. On December 21, 2024, they traded All-Star first baseman Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for right-handed pitcher Slade Cecconi and Arizona’s 2025 Competitive Balance Round B draft pick.
Naylor, 27, had an impressive 2024 season, hitting 31 home runs and recording 108 RBIs, earning his first All-Star selection. His departure leaves a notable gap in the Guardians’ lineup. To address this, Cleveland promptly signed veteran first baseman Carlos Santana to a one-year, $12 million deal.
Santana, 38, is returning for his third stint with the Guardians. In the previous season with the Minnesota Twins, he batted .238 with 23 home runs and 71 RBIs, and earned his first Gold Glove award.
The trade has sparked discussions among analysts and fans. Some are puzzled by the Guardians’ decision to trade a younger, power-hitting first baseman for a less established pitcher and a draft pick, only to sign an older veteran as a replacement.
Slade Cecconi, 25, had a challenging 2024 season with the Diamondbacks, posting a 6.66 ERA over 20 appearances. However, he showed promise at Triple-A Reno with a 3.06 ERA. The Guardians may see potential in Cecconi to bolster their pitching rotation.
As the Guardians prepare for the upcoming season, these moves indicate a strategic shift. The team’s management appears focused on balancing experienced leadership with developing talent, aiming to remain competitive in the American League Central Di
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