Ex-OF Tyler Naquin attempting to make Guardians as pitcher

Field Level Media|published: Thu 6th March, 21:02 2025

Aug 20, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Mets right fielder Tyler Naquin (25) catches a fly ball against the Philadelphia Phillies during the second inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

The Cleveland Guardians brought back former outfielder Tyler Naquin on a minor league contract Thursday -- but this time around, he will try to make the team as a pitcher.

A right-hander, Naquin last played a major league game in 2023 for the Chicago White Sox. He played in only five games that year and did not play in 2024.

Naquin, who turns 34 next month, reported to Cleveland's spring training facility in Goodyear, Ariz. He's never pitched in a major league game, even as a mop-up man in a blowout.

Naquin began his career with Cleveland, playing five seasons there from 2016-20. In 562 career games with Cleveland, the Cincinnati Reds (2021-22), New York Mets (2022) and Chicago White Sox (2023), he batted .263 with 61 home runs and 237 RBIs.

He played all three outfield spots but primarily a mix of right field (248 career games) and center (230). He is credited with 32 career outfield assists, illustrating his arm strength.

--Field Level Media

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