A recent losing streak has pushed the Cleveland Guardians back to the pack in the tight AL playoff race. That could force the team into some difficult decisions as the MLB trade deadline approaches.
Before that Aug. 3 cutoff arrives, the Guardians have to weigh their status as potential buyers and what they are willing to give up to improve their postseason chances. In their search for a hitter who can bolster their struggling lineup, Cleveland could return to a familiar name.
Insider Zack Meisel of The Athletic has made a bold prediction about the Guardians’ trade deadline plans, saying they could look for a reunion with outfielder Lane Thomas.
“Lane Thomas returns,” Meisel wrote. “I suppose it’s not too bold if it’s the exact same addition they made two years ago at the trade deadline. This time around, they’re hanging around in the race mostly because the AL is so weak, so a marginal upgrade at a spot of need — it seems like a reliable right-handed-hitting outfielder has been a need at the trade deadline for the last quarter-century — makes sense.”
Thomas was acquired by the Guardians in a trade with the Washington Nationals before the 2024 deadline. Cleveland parted with three minor league prospects – pitcher Alex Clemmey, infielder Jose Tena, and shortstop Rafael Ramirez Jr. – in the deal.
Coming off a 28-home run season in 2023, Thomas hit .209 with seven home runs in 54 games after his arrival in Cleveland. Last year, he was limited to just 39 games with a .160 batting average and .518 OPS last year. In addition to a bone bruise on his wrist, his season ended when he had surgery on a persistent plantar fasciitis issue.
With prospect Chase DeLauter ready to join the MLB lineup alongside All-Star Steven Kwan, and the expected development of George Valera, Angel Martinez and CJ Kayfus, the Guardians had an abundance of outfielders available, and they let Thomas leave as a free agent.
He signed a one-year contract with the Kansas City Royals, and he has posted a .230/.327/.400 slash line with 10 home runs. The Guardians are likely looking for a right-handed bat to better balance their lefty-heavy lineup, and Thomas could have a more reasonable trade cost as a rental.
About to turn 31 years old next month, he also could provide some valuable veteran playoff experience if the Guardians can turn things around and qualify for the third season in a row.
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