Jo Adell was arguably one of the best trade deadline acquisitions in the majors this year, helping the Cleveland Guardians rally to win the AL Central and make it all the way to the ALCS. Even though the Guardians fell short of the World Series, they would not have gotten as far as they did without Adell in their lineup.
Now, the Guardians and Adell have to decide if they have a future together. With labor negotiations creating an uncertain offseason, it is unknown what the landscape will be going forward.
That could be why an emotional Instagram post from Adell has Guardians fans wondering if he will be back next season, whenever it might begin.
“Two cities, two jerseys, and one wild season. Thankful for this season, the memories made, and all the people who made this year special. Through every high, low, and unexpected turn, the relationships are what I’ll carry with me most. Nothing but gratitude for everyone who was part of the ride.” Adell posted.
Jo Adell posted some gratitude today on Instagram. @JoShowAdell pic.twitter.com/82Ny42n9rI
— Roberto Shenanigans (@Rob_Shenanigans) October 31, 2026
As the rules stand now, Adell is arbitration-eligible for next season, meaning he remains under Guardians control. However, Cleveland may not want to spend on the contract that might result if the process remains as is in the new collective bargaining agreement. MLB Trade Rumors projects a $9.6 million salary for Adell for 2027.
The franchise has a history of trading away players in this situation, with first baseman Josh Naylor in 2024 and shortstop Francisco Lindor in 2021 as recent examples. So, there is no guarantee that Adell is going to be back, even at that seemingly reasonable price tag.
The Guardians acquired Adell on Aug. 3, sending catching prospect Jacob Cozart to the Los Angeles Angels in return. The outfielder was expected to provide the powerful right-handed bat that Cleveland needed, and he came through better than anyone could have expected.
In 48 games with Cleveland, Adell had 32 RBIs, with seven home runs and an OPS of .740. More importantly, the Guardians were 28-21 after his arrival and overcame a six-game deficit to overtake the Chicago White Sox to win the division.
Then, in the playoffs, Adell batted just .195 but had eight RBIs in 11 games. That included a memorable bases-loaded triple in a must-win Game 3 of the ALDS against the White Sox.
Cleveland has 13 arbitration-eligible players this offseason, including starter Gavin Williams, closer Cade Smith, outfielder Steven Kwan, catcher Patrick Bailey, and shortstop Brayan Rocchio, so the Guardians and their fans will have a lot to keep their eyes on in the coming months.
NEXT: 2 Surprise Moves The Guardians Could Make This Offseason
