The Cleveland Guardians are keeping one of their veterans around.
They re-signed catcher Austin Hedges to a one-year, $4 million contract that includes $500,000 in incentives.
However, that’s not necessarily good news, at least in terms of offense.
“Of the 790 players to receive at least 2,500 PA in the Wild Card Era, Austin Hedges’ 52 OPS+ is the 2nd-worst, ahead of only (retired catcher) Jeff Mathis (48),” Justin Havens wrote on X.
Of the 790 players to receive at least 2,500 PA in the Wild Card Era, Austin Hedges' 52 OPS+ is the 2nd-worst, ahead of only Jeff Mathis (48). https://t.co/Qqh7kuOr27
— nugget chef (@jayhaykid) October 15, 2025
This is the third straight one-year contract for Hedges.
He has never been a good hitter, and that’s not likely to change at this point in his career.
In his 11 MLB seasons, he’s slashed .185/.244/.313, and he’s been at .157/.229/.251 in 326 plate appearances since returning two seasons ago.
Yet that does not fully explain his value to the team.
Manager Stephen Vogt has often referred to Hedges as the best defensive catcher in the game.
He’s a high-end game-caller who has built a strong relationship with his pitchers.
So, even though he’s not going to provide much at the plate, the Guardians believe he’s an important piece in the clubhouse, and a team needs that type of player on the roster.
The Guardians will most likely continue to use Bo Naylor at catcher along with Hedges.
Naylor struggled at times this season but picked things up when it mattered most.
His offensive potential is there, and if Hedges can mentor him and help shape his defense while also providing something as the backup, it will be worth the investment, so long as they have realistic expectations about his offensive production.
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