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10h ago

Guardians Reportedly Bring Back Austin Hedges on 2026 One-Year Deal

The move reinforces Cleveland’s preference for a defense-first catcher behind Bo Naylor.

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Apr 20, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Cleveland Guardians President of Baseball Operations Chris Antonetti tosses a baseball on the field before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • MLB insider Jon Heyman reports a one-year agreement for 2026 at $4 million with up to $500,000 in incentives during the post–World Series exclusive window.
  • The Guardians have not formally announced the deal.
  • Hedges, 33, would be returning for a sixth season with Cleveland.
  • He hit .161 with five home runs and a .547 OPS in 155 at-bats in 2025 but was credited with strong defense and leadership, totaling 1.2 fWAR.
  • Cleveland gains catching depth with Bo Naylor expected to handle most duties while David Fry’s return from surgery is eased.