Guardians News: Will Josh Naylor Sign An Extension?
The Cleveland Guardians organization has been criticized by fans for not signing big-name free agents. While yes, that is true, they have committed financially long-term to players such as Jose Ramirez, Andres Gimenez, Emmanuel Clase, and Myles Straw.
Could another extension be a possibility for arguably the team's best overall hitter?
Josh Naylor is coming off a career season where he had a .308/.354/.489 slash line and an OPS of .843. He also led the team with 97 RBI. Naylor is an incredible talent and more than worth exploring the option of keeping him around for a while.
Paul Hoynes of Cleveland.com talked to Naylor about the possibility of an extension and it's something the 26-year-old is leaving in the hands of the organization.
May 28, 2022; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Cleveland Guardians right fielder Josh Naylor (22) hits an RBI double in the fourth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
"I'm going to leave that to them," said Naylor. "You can ask them that question. Obviously, Cleveland's an incredible place to play. I love my teammates, I love my coaches and, yeah, my brother's here too, which is awesome. We'll see what God has planned for me."
Based on what's said here, Naylor appears to enjoy playing for the Guardians for a variety of reasons and it seems he would be happy staying in Cleveland for a while longer. Will the front office work with him to make that a possibility?
All of this talk of a potential extension comes during the same offseason that Naylor has popped up in trade rumors. Moving one of the team's best offensive threats would be the last thing fans want to see happen never mind him being a fan favorite off the field.
Whatever happens with Naylor in the future, one thing is clear. The Guardians need more offense and Josh could be a part of that for years to come.
