Well-known veteran catcher Austin Hedges has signed a one-year deal to return to the Cleveland Guardians for the upcoming season.
The team acknowledged Hedges’ leadership as a key element of their success this year, which saw them finish with a record of 92-69 and secure the AL Central title under rookie manager Stephen Vogt. Cleveland triumphed over Detroit in a closely contested division series but was eliminated in five games by the New York Yankees in the ALCS.
Financial details were not disclosed immediately. Hedges served as a key connection in the clubhouse for Vogt, who had to address multiple injuries to his pitching staff early in the season. The 32-year-old Hedges supported rookie catcher Bo Naylor during his first year in the majors and played in eight of Cleveland’s ten postseason games. During exit interviews, Hedges expressed a desire to return, and the team’s sentiment was mutual. “He’s not just there as a figurehead; he’s a very talented player,” Vogt noted after the season. “He means much more to us than what outsiders might recognize.
He contributes to our improvement and challenges both the coaching staff and his teammates, bringing energy every day. “Plus, he’s an exceptional major league player. You don’t last in this league as long as he has by mere chance.” Hedges re-signed with Cleveland after spending the 2023 season with Pittsburgh and Texas, where he won a World Series title. The Guardians had a record of 26-20 in the 46 games Hedges started. Although he faced challenges as a hitter, his experience allowed him to start in the postseason and to replace Naylor in high-pressure situations. Hedges previously spent more than five seasons with San Diego before being traded to Cleveland halfway through the 2020 season.
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