Cleveland, OH – In a significant shakeup of their lineup, the Cleveland Guardians have traded first baseman Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks. The deal, which was finalized on December 21, 2024, sees the Guardians receiving right-handed pitcher Slade Cecconi and a competitive balance Round B draft pick in 2025 in exchange for Naylor. Almost immediately following this trade, the Guardians signed veteran first baseman Carlos Santana to a one-year, $12 million contract, marking his third stint with the team.
Trade Details:
- To Arizona Diamondbacks: 1B Josh Naylor
- To Cleveland Guardians: RHP Slade Cecconi, Competitive Balance Round B draft pick
Josh Naylor, who turns 28 in 2025, had a standout season in 2024, hitting a career-high 31 home runs and driving in 108 RBIs. His trade comes as he enters his last year of team control before free agency, making him an attractive asset for the Diamondbacks, who are looking to bolster their lineup after Christian Walker signed with the Houston Astros.
Slade Cecconi, a 25-year-old right-hander, has been with the Diamondbacks since being drafted in 2020. His MLB career so far has included a 6.06 ERA over 104 innings pitched, but his potential and control through the 2029 season make him an intriguing piece for Cleveland, particularly as they look to revamp their pitching staff.
Santana’s Return:
Carlos Santana, at 38 years old, brings back a familiar face to the Guardians. Known for his plate discipline and power, Santana has spent significant parts of his career with Cleveland, where he was originally a catcher before transitioning to first base. His return is seen as both a veteran presence and a short-term solution at first base, allowing the Guardians to ease younger players like Kyle Manzardo into more regular roles.
Santana’s contract mirrors what Naylor was projected to earn in arbitration, making this move financially balanced for the Guardians while adding a seasoned player to their roster. His signing was announced shortly after the Naylor trade, indicating Cleveland’s swift action to maintain depth at first base.
This series of moves by the Guardians reflects a strategic approach to their roster management, focusing on both immediate competitiveness and future development. The trade and signing have been subjects of discussion among fans and analysts, with many posts on X highlighting the implications for both teams’ upcoming seasons.
The Guardians are clearly aiming to blend experience with youth, while the Diamondbacks gain a potent bat in Naylor to fill the void left by Walker, potentially reshaping their offensive strategy for the 2025 season.