The Diamondbacks have traded for All-Star Josh Naylor, sending pitcher Slade Cecconi to the Guardians in a significant offseason move
Phoenix: So, the Diamondbacks just made a big splash by trading for Josh Naylor, the All-Star first baseman from the Guardians. They sent Slade Cecconi, a right-handed pitcher, over to Cleveland. It’s a pretty exciting move!
Naylor had a fantastic season, hitting 31 home runs and driving in 108 runs. He’s been a solid player for the Guardians, starting at first base for the last three years. Plus, he’s still young at 27 and will be a free agent after 2025.
The Diamondbacks needed a first baseman after losing Christian Walker to the Astros. It looks like they found a great replacement in Naylor. On the flip side, the Guardians didn’t waste any time filling the gap. They quickly signed veteran Carlos Santana to a one-year deal.
Santana is familiar with Cleveland, having spent ten seasons there earlier in his career. He’s a switch-hitter and had a decent year with the Twins last season, so he should bring some experience to the team.
This trade is just one of the moves the Guardians have made this offseason. They also traded their Gold Glove second baseman to Toronto in a three-team deal and picked up right-hander Luis Ortiz from the Pirates. It’s shaping up to be an interesting winter for both teams!