The Cleveland Guardians trade rumors are swirling as they’re open to trading first baseman Josh Naylor and outfielder Lane Thomas, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. Both players are set to become free agents after the 2025 season. Naylor, 27, is projected to earn $12 million through arbitration in 2025, which would make him the team’s second-highest-player behind Jose Ramirez. Thomas, 29, is expected to earn $8.3 million.
The Guardians have a ready-made replacement for Naylor at first base in top prospect Kyle Manzardo, who impressed down the stretch and in the postseason. However, Cleveland is thin on outfielders beyond Steven Kawn, making Thomas a more valubale asset. While trading Thomas might not be a priority, listening to offers could be beneficial. A potential deal could net the Guardians one or two younger players with long-term control, which could be attractive as the team looks to build for the future.
Guardians Trade Rumors: Naylor and Thomas Drawing Interest
Naylor is coming off a breakout season with the Guardians. He hit 31 home runs and drove in 108 RBI in 2024. However, his production slowed in the second half. Naylor’s first-half numbers earned him his first All-Star nod. He posted an .816 OPS before the break. In contrast, his second-half OPS was .717. Despite this, Naylor still managed 633 plate appearances, a career high.
The Guardians have historically been hesitant to signed players to lucrative extnesions as they approach free agency. This trend suggests that Naylor’s time in Cleveland may be limited. The teams has a capable replacement for Naylor in Kyle Manzardo. Manzardo impressed in his debut and could be a ready for a full-time role. Additionally, David Fry is set to return to from elbow surgery at later point in 2025, which could further complicate Naylor’s role. Naylor, acquired from the San Diego Padres at the 2020 deadline, has emerged not only as one of the Guardians’ most valuable position players, but also as a galvanizing force in the clubhouse and dugout.
Thomas, on the other hand, is a more versatile player. The Guardians acquired him at the trade deadline, and he struggled initially. However, Thomas rebounded with a strong postseason performance. Thomas’s projected $8.3 million salary is manageable. Still, the Guardians may see this as an opportunity to sell high on the outfielder. If they choose to trade or stick with Thomas, they could turn to Will Brennan, Johonkensey Noel or Daniel Schneemann as other options.
The Guardians’ willingness to listen to offers for Naylor and Thomas suggests a two-pronged approach this offseason. They aim to maintain financial discipline while remaining competitive. By trading one or both players, the Guardians could acquire young, controllable talent or address other areas of need, such as pitching depth or additional power in the lineup.
Cleveland’s decision to listen to offers for Naylor and Thomas is a calculated move. It reflects their commitment to fiscal responsibility and their desire to remain competitive. It will be interesting to see how the Guardians choose to proceed.
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