Josh Naylor was an All-Star this year, playing a huge role in the Cleveland Guardians’ run to the American League Championship.

Naylor is now an Arizona Diamondback, as the Guardians traded him on Friday for pitcher Slade Cecconi and a draft pick.

Naylor hit .243 with 31 home runs and 108 RBI. He also provided strong protection for Jose Ramirez in the cleanup spot in the lineup.

Arizona sought Naylor’s services when first baseman Christian Walker signed with Houston earlier in the day.

WELCOME BACK … AGAIN

The Guardians quickly welcomed Carlos Santana back for this third stint with the team.

Santana played for the Indians from 2010 to 2017 and returned for two more seasons after spending 2018 with the Phillies.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of Santana:

·      PROS: He hit 23 home runs last year and won his first Gold Glove.

·      CONS: He’s 38 years old, he’s a slow starter, and he hit .238 last year.

Cleveland has now traded the right side of the infield, as Andres Gimenez went to Toronto, with the Guardians getting Luis Ortiz in another trade with Pittsburgh.

WHY TRADE JOSH?

Money is always the first suspect in a trade like this. While Naylor is still affordable this year, he is set to hit the free agent market after the 2025 season.

Legendary Cleveland sportswriter Terry Pluto wrote about another possible reason. Take a look at the photo for a hint.

Pluto questioned Naylor’s weight and physical conditioning at the team’s post-season press conference.

The Naylor trade opens the door for Kyle Manzardo to get more playing time. He will probably share time with Santana at first base and David Fry at designated hitter.