Tyler Freeman had been a part of the Cleveland Guardians organization since he was drafted in 2017.
That’s almost eight years of defending the Cleveland baseball franchise with pride.
After making his MLB debut in 2022, unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to establish himself as a regular, with an 83 wRC+ (the league average mark is 100) in 637 plate appearances.
He focused his offseason routine to build some muscle and increase his power, which resulted in a 173 wRC+ and two homers in spring training.
Still, it wasn’t enough to stay in Cleveland, as the Guards traded him to the Colorado Rockies on Saturday night.
There, in Denver, he will try to resurrect his career and actually has a good chance of doing so between his revamped power, increased potential for playing time, and thinner air.
Guardians Prospective posted a video of Freeman discussing the trade, how he found out, and the crazy hours that ensued.
Former #Guardians (INF/OF) Tyler Freeman discussing his trade to the Rockies on Saturday for Nolan Jones. pic.twitter.com/CsQQqty3z9
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) March 23, 2025
He said he was just sitting in his locker when he was called into the manager’s office.
The next three hours, he said, were complete chaos.
He wasn’t initially told where he was going.
Of course, saying goodbye to the teammates that have been with him for most of his career was the toughest part of the evening.
Freeman did welcome the next chapter in his career, saying he is excited to be a Rockie.
It’s too bad his bat couldn’t match the development of his glove, versatility, and his baseball IQ.
It doesn’t mean it can’t happen from now on in Colorado, though.
He is still just 25, after all, and better days could be ahead.
The Rockies aren’t in a good place as a franchise, but Freeman might have a good opportunity to put up some solid numbers in the bigs.
NEXT: Guardians Insider Reveals Opening Day Rotation
