Top Offseason Move the Guardians Must Consider
The Cleveland Guardians are poised to make strategic moves this offseason to revitalize their offense. Following a challenging 2025, marked by poor performance against left-handed pitchers, the team is considering several options.
Top Offseason Move the Guardians Must Consider
Acquiring a right-handed powerhouse hitter is a priority. The team aims to strengthen its lineup on a reasonable budget, with potential acquisitions like Willson Contreras from the St. Louis Cardinals considered ideal.
Targeting Willson Contreras
Willson Contreras, currently with the Cardinals, has emerged as a strong candidate for the Guardians. His 2025 performance, highlighted by a 124 wRC+, makes him an attractive target. He’s currently on a two-year, $34.5 million contract with St. Louis and has a no-trade clause that allows him to veto trades to ten teams. Despite this, he has expressed openness to joining a contending team.
- Contract Details: 2 years, $34.5 million
- No-trade clause: Can veto trades to 10 teams but may waive for contenders
Benefits of Adding Contreras
Transitioning from catcher to first baseman, Contreras showed proficiency with a 6 Outs Above Average and -1 Defensive Runs Saved last season. This flexibility could enhance the Guardians’ strategic options.
Contreras, a 33-year-old with a career 135 wRC+ against lefties, offers the offensive boost the Guardians need. His metrics, including a 90.6 mph average exit velocity and a 13.8% barrel rate, underscore his offensive prowess.
- Performance Metrics:
- 135 wRC+ against left-handed pitching
- 117 wRC+ against right-handed pitching
- 90.6 mph average exit velocity
- 13.8% barrel rate
Trade Dynamics
The Cardinals, missing playoffs for two consecutive years, are considering restructuring. Contreras’ trade could facilitate their rebuilding efforts. The Guardians can leverage their pitching talent to negotiate a mutually beneficial deal. This move would also mitigate any financial risks associated with Contreras’ contract.
Impact on Guardians’ Lineup
Incorporating Contreras could transform the Guardians’ lineup. His presence, coupled with other potential acquisitions like Rhys Hoskins or Taylor Ward, promises improvement against left-handed pitchers. This strategy positions the Guardians for a more competitive 2026 season.
Contreras remains at the forefront of the Guardians’ offseason goals. With astute management by Antonetti, tapping into Cleveland’s pitching assets, this acquisition could become reality.
