MLB Rumors: Guardians Linked To 3 Free Agents This Offseason

October 22, 2024 , , ,

Zach Pressnell of Fansided has identified three key free agents who could help the Cleveland Guardians make a strong push for the 2025 World Series: Kyle Higashioka, Anthony Santander, and Shane Bieber. 

First, Higashioka, a 34-year-old catcher, offers a clear upgrade over Austin Hedges’ weak offensive production. 

With a .220/.263/.476 slash line and 17 home runs in 2024, Higashioka would bring more consistent hitting to Cleveland’s lineup. 

Pressnell notes, “Higashioka wouldn’t be a waste of a roster spot,” emphasizing his value as a veteran complement to Bo Naylor behind the plate.

Anthony Santander, coming off a career-high 44 home runs, is the second target. 

Santander’s power would provide the Guardians' outfield with the pop they’ve lacked, especially alongside José Ramírez. 

While his contract demands might be steep, Pressnell argues that adding a 40-home-run hitter like Santander would "set up serious offensive success" for Cleveland, making him a transformative addition despite the likely cost.

The final and perhaps most crucial target is Shane Bieber. 

Although an early injury knocked Bieber out for the 2024 season, Pressnell sees re-signing him as essential for stabilizing the rotation. 

Bieber’s diminished free-agent value presents an opportunity for Cleveland to secure him on a short-term deal, which Pressnell calls a potential "steal" given Bieber’s ability to anchor the staff if healthy.

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images



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