Back in late 2022, the Cleveland Guardians traded blossoming, but strikeout-prone outfielder Nolan Jones to the Colorado Rockies in exchange for infield prospect Juan Brito.
A little over two years after that transaction, the Guardians have agreed to a trade with the Rockies to re-acquire Jones in an odd, unexpected move.
“We have acquired OF Nolan Jones in exchange for UTL Tyler Freeman. Welcome back, Nolan!” the team posted on X.
We have acquired OF Nolan Jones in exchange for UTL Tyler Freeman.
Welcome back, Nolan!#GuardsBall pic.twitter.com/4XVDiAaWNd
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) March 22, 2025
Thomas Harding, who covers the Rockies, was the first to report that a deal was close.
Jones blossomed in Colorado in 2023, with exactly 20 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and a .931 OPS.
Between injuries and strikeout issues, he took a step back last year with a .641 OPS.
While it’s surprising that the Guardians re-acquire a player they traded away just a couple of years ago, the move makes perfect sense from a roster construction standpoint.
Cleveland will go with a platoon in right field, with Jhonkensy Noel playing against lefties and now Jones against righties.
Prior to the trade, Will Brennan was slated to fulfill Jones’ role, but his offensive numbers to this date have been underwhelming.
Jones boasts a 114 career wRC+ against right-handed pitching, so his acquisition definitely attacks a huge need in the Guardians’ lineup.
As for Freeman, he was given the chance to be the team’s center fielder last year and slumped to a .626 OPS, finding himself in the minors at one point.
He has had a strong spring with a 1.080 OPS and his numbers are bound to improve in the thin air of Colorado if he gets a chance to play every day.
NEXT: Race For Guardians' Second Base Spot Down To Three Candidates
