The Cleveland Guardians’ decision to move on from Josh Naylor drew some criticism at the time.
The first baseman was one of the team’s best hitters, and it felt like they could’ve kept him around at a reasonable price.
That’s why, now that Naylor might switch teams again, insider Paul Hoynes would love to see him back at Progressive Field.
Unfortunately, he just doesn’t see a reunion on the horizon.
“I’d love to see [Josh Naylor] back in Cleveland. I think that’s what they need. They need some power and stability at first base, but I don’t see that happening,” Hoynes said. “I just don’t see him coming back here. I think there’s other places where he definitely could end up, but I don’t think it’s going to be Cleveland.”
Given how things went for the Guardians this season, chances are that they will use a combination of Kyle Manzardo and C.J. Kayfus at first base, and that’s not a bad idea.
Despite not getting many opportunities early in the campaign, Manzardo wound up proving that he needed to be in the lineup down the stretch.
He added power to his game without giving up contact, and he should be a big factor in what they do going forward.
As for Kayfus, he needs to make some adjustments at the plate, like any young player, but he’s got a bright future.
Once he limits his strikeouts, he can be a legitimate force.
Of course, bringing back Naylor could give the Guardians another proven veteran to help their offense, provided that his price as a free agent makes sense.
But after trading him away last offseason, in part due to his expected future earnings, it’s hard to believe they will be interested a year later.
NEXT: Insider Has Strong Belief About Guardians Despite Falling Short
