Diamondbacks Acquire Josh Naylor for Slade Cecconi and a Draft Pick

The D-backs make their first major move of 2024-25 offseason, filling a hole at first base.

Oct 15, 2024; Bronx, New York, USA; Cleveland Guardians first base Josh Naylor (22) hits a single during the second inning against the New York Yankees in game two of the ALCS for the 2024 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images / Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a trade with the Cleveland Guardians, acquiring first baseman Josh Naylor. They are sending right-hander Slade Cecconi and a Competitive Balance Round B draft pick back to the Guardians.

Naylor is a 27 year old left-handed hitter coming off a career year in 2024 in which he blasted 31 homers and drove in 108 runs. He batted .243/.320/.456 with a .776 OPS, or 118 OPS+. For his career he's hit .262 with a .767 OPS, or 112 OPS+.

Naylor was identified by Alex D'Agostino as a potential trade target to fill the space left by the departure of free agent Christian Walker who signed with the Houston Astros on Friday.

Related Content: Should the Diamondbacks Trade for Josh Naylor?

Naylor is arbitration eligible for 2025, and is estimated earn $12 million. Unless the Diamondbacks offer him an extension, he will be a free agent during 2025-26.

Cecconi made his rookie debut with the Diamondbacks in 2023, and over the past two seasons appeared in 27 games, making 17 starts. He posted a 6.60 ERA and a 4.85 FIP in 104 innings. He had an excellent strikeout to walk ratio of 84-21, but allowed 20 homers.

The big right-hander has potential, but is in need of a reliable third breaking pitch to remain a starting pitcher.

Stay tuned with Arizona Diamondbacks ON SI for more reaction from General Manager Mike Hazen later this evening.