Admit it: the 2022 Cleveland Guardians were one of the most exciting teams in baseball.
With a unique brand of baseball, a solid rotation, an elite bullpen, Jose Ramirez and a few talented complementary hitters, they won a playoff series against the Tampa Bay Rays and really made things complicated for the New York Yankees.
Oscar Gonzalez, Andres Gimenez, Steven Kwan and Amed Rosario took gigantic steps forward last season.
There was another breakout performer on the hitting side of things: Josh Naylor.
Naylor, who reached national and international audiences with his “rocking the baby” home run celebration, was a fiery presence in the middle of the Guardians’ lineup.
He hit 20 home runs for a team in dire need of power, and remains a valuable piece for 2023.
Speaking of 2023, his salary for the season has been decided on Friday.
He settled with the Guardians on a $3.35 million salary, per MLB insider Jon Heyman.
Josh Naylor
$3.35m— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 13, 2023
It was the first season of arbitration eligibility for the powerful corner outfielder/first baseman.
He sure made an impact in 2022 with his power and passionate celebrations.
His energy was felt in the entire Guardians clubhouse.
In 122 games, he slashed .256/.319/.452 with a solid 117 wRC+.
If he manages to stay healthy this upcoming season and plays 150 games, he has a true shot at becoming a 30-homer hitter.
The Guardians’ lineup is underrated, but it actually needs a 30-homer threat and Naylor can provide one.
If he can do that and new signings Josh Bell and Mike Zunino can hit at least 25, there is no way the Guardians lose the AL Central crown.
Not with their talented foundation.
