Carlos Santana Returns to Cleveland Guardians

Carlos Santana has returned to the Cleveland Guardians for a third stint, signing a one-year, $12 million contract following the trade of Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 38-year-old veteran, who has a storied history with the team, most recently played for the Minnesota Twins, where he achieved a .238 batting average with 23 home runs and won a Gold Glove. Interestingly, Santana had just sold his Cleveland home before the Guardians reached out with an offer, highlighting the fortuitous timing of the deal. Despite other offers, including a better financial proposal from the Seattle Mariners, Santana's emotional ties to Cleveland played a significant role in his decision to return. This signing allows the Guardians to have a competent first baseman while they explore their roster options. Santana, who is second in club history in walks, will fill a vital role for the Guardians as they navigate an offseason of significant roster changes.