The Cleveland Guardians finally enjoyed a breakout season from first baseman Josh Naylor.
He delivered a .776 OPS, 31 home runs and 108 RBI, contributing thump to the middle of the Guardians lineup.
Those numbers, believe it or not, make him more likely to be traded this off-season.
Naylor only has a year left of team control, in which he is projected to make around $12 million depending on salary arbitration.
Cleveland has shown a propensity to trade players approaching free agency in the past, and Naylor fits the bill here.
The fact he had such a solid season in 2024 actually helps his market and gives Cleveland plenty of suitors.
No, Naylor won’t bring in a huge haul of prospects in return, but might net the team some starting pitching help.
The Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates and Seattle Mariners reportedly talked to the Guardians about a deal last off-season.
While the Cubs went out and acquired Michael Busch, the Bucs and M’s still need first base help.
Their offense, in general, could use a spark and Naylor has the ability to provide homers, doubles and RBIs in bunches.
The Mariners in particular have some impressive starting pitching depth, but Pittsburgh might be a fit, too.
In any case, it does seem like Naylor has played his last game in Cleveland.
He is a beloved member of the team and fans adore him, but if the Guardians are going to follow recent tendencies and upgrade a position of need, a trade is in their best interest.
They have Kyle Manzardo ready to take over at first base, so while the lineup would definitely feel Naylor’s absence, it makes sense because he has a replacement who is very promising.
NEXT: Should The Guardians Pursue A Reunion With 2 2024 Pitching Acquisitions?
