The Cleveland Guardians might’ve just landed their biggest free agent addition of the spring. Rhys Hoskins showed up in the Guardians clubhouse wearing team gear, and Zack Meisel of The Athletic made it clear this wasn’t just a casual visit.
“Rhys Hoskins is in the Guardians’ clubhouse. He’s in Guardians’ gear, too. This isn’t just a random visit.”
Nothing’s official yet, but when a free agent shows up in your clubhouse wearing your uniform, that’s about as close to a done deal as you get without the paperwork.
The timing makes sense for Cleveland. They’ve been quiet this offseason – it’s largely the same roster that made their run last year. But Hoskins would give them the veteran bat they’ve been missing.
The 32-year-old first baseman spent six seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he became known for his power stroke. His best year came in 2018 when he launched 34 home runs. He led the majors in walks the following season and carries a career .820 OPS.
Last season with Milwaukee wasn’t his best – .237 average with 12 homers in 90 games. But he’s still got pop in his bat, and for a Guardians lineup that could use more thump, Hoskins makes sense.
The roster fit gets interesting though. Kyle Manzardo isn’t going anywhere, and CJ Kafus is penciled in as the designated hitter. If Hoskins does sign, manager Stephen Vogt will have some decisions to make about the lineup configuration.
Hoskins could slot in at first base or DH, giving Cleveland flexibility to rotate players and keep everyone fresh. At this stage of his career, he’s not the 30-homer threat he once was, but he’s still a professional hitter who knows how to work counts and drive in runs.
For a team that’s been conservative with spending, landing Hoskins would signal they’re serious about building on last year’s success. The fact that he’s already in the clubhouse suggests this could become official soon.
It’s a move that makes sense for both sides – Cleveland gets veteran production, and Hoskins gets a chance to contribute to a team on the rise.
