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MLB News: All-Star 1B Josh Naylor Traded from Guardians to Diamondbacks

Taylyn Hadley

The Arizona Diamondbacks have obtained first baseman Josh Naylor from the Cleveland Guardians in a trade, the team announced Saturday.

ESPN's Jeff Passan first reported the terms of the trade:

Naylor wrapped up last season with a .243 batting average, 31 home runs and 108 RBI for the 92-69 Guardians.

The Guardians acquired right-handed pitcher Slade Cecconi and a competitive balance Round B draft pick in the trade.

In addition, 39-year-old first baseman Carlos Santana signed a one-year, $12 million contract with the Cleveland Guardians, pending a physical, immediately following the news of Naylor's departure, according to Passan.

Naylor began his career with the San Diego Padres in 2019 before spending five seasons with the Guardians. Last season with the Guardians, Naylor had a career year, setting personal bests in both RBI and home runs.

During the Guardians' postseason run, which ended with a 4-1 loss to the New York Yankees in the AL Championship Series, Naylor tallied two runs, nine hits and five RBI, posting a .225 batting average.

The signing comes just one day after former Diamondbacks first baseman Christian Walker reached a three-year, $60 million deal with the Houston Astros, leaving a significant gap in Arizona's infield.

Last season with the Diamondbacks, Walker hit 26 home runs, drove in 84 RBI and posted a .251 batting average, playing a key role in Arizona's 89-73 season.

Naylor will have big shoes to fill for an Arizona team aiming to return to the World Series, as they did in 2023.

   

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