In a move to solidify their catching corps and clubhouse leadership, the Cleveland Guardians have re-signed veteran backstop Austin Hedges to a one-year, $4 million contract for the 2025 season. The 32-year-old Hedges, known for his defensive prowess and experience, will serve as a backup and mentor to rising star Bo Naylor.
Hedges’ Leadership Proves Invaluable
Hedges’ impact on the 2024 Guardians extended far beyond his on-field contributions. Rookie manager Stephen Vogt credited the catcher’s leadership as a major factor in the team’s success, which included a 92-69 record, an AL Central title, and a hard-fought ALCS appearance against the New York Yankees.
“He’s so much more to us than what any outside source can see. He helps us get better. He helps me get better. He challenges the coaching staff. He challenges his teammates and he brings the energy every single day.”
– Guardians manager Stephen Vogt on Austin Hedges
Hedges served as a conduit between Vogt and the pitching staff, helping navigate early-season injuries. He also took young catcher Bo Naylor under his wing, mentoring the highly-touted prospect throughout the year and appearing in eight of the team’s ten postseason games.
A Trusted Veteran Presence
While Hedges struggled offensively in 2024, his value to the Guardians was never in question. The team posted a 26-20 record in his 46 starts, and his experience proved crucial in pressure-packed postseason situations, often replacing Naylor late in games.
Hedges, who previously won a World Series with the Texas Rangers, expressed interest in returning to Cleveland during his exit interviews. The feeling was mutual, with the Guardians recognizing his importance to the team’s chemistry and development.
Building on 2024’s Success
By retaining Hedges, the Guardians have taken a significant step towards maintaining the clubhouse culture that fueled their success in 2024. His presence will provide stability as the team looks to defend its AL Central crown and make another deep postseason run.
For Naylor, who is expected to take on an even larger role in 2025, having Hedges as a backup and mentor could prove invaluable. The young catcher showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season, and with Hedges’ guidance, he could develop into one of the league’s top backstops.
The Road Ahead
With Hedges back in the fold, the Guardians can turn their attention to other areas of need this offseason. The team may look to bolster its starting rotation and add depth to its lineup as it prepares for the 2025 campaign.
Regardless of what other moves the Guardians make, re-signing Austin Hedges ensures that the team will have a trusted veteran presence behind the plate and in the clubhouse. As they seek to build on their 2024 success, that leadership could make all the difference.
