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6h ago

Reports: Guardians Bring Back Austin Hedges on One-Year, $4 Million Deal With Incentives

The move underscores Cleveland's preference for elite defense over offensive output.

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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

  • Multiple outlets cite MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reporting a one-year, $4 million agreement with up to $500,000 in incentives for 2026, with club confirmation still pending.
  • A return would mark Hedges’ sixth season in Cleveland as depth behind Bo Naylor, easing pressure while David Fry gradually resumes catching after surgery and a facial injury.
  • Hedges batted .161 with a .527 OPS in 2025 but ranked among the top catchers in framing and tied for the best caught-stealing rate at 43 percent.
  • Manager Stephen Vogt has praised Hedges’ leadership, with players crediting his presence during the team’s midseason rebound and AL Central title run.
  • The deal mirrors Hedges’ prior one-year, $4 million contracts with Cleveland and has fueled discussion about how the Guardians allocate limited offseason payroll.