Saturday, it was announced that the Cleveland Guardians have traded away 2024 All-Star first baseman Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for pitcher Slade Cecconi and a Competitive Balance Round B draft pick.

Naylor had become a staple in the Cleveland lineup, mashing a career-high in home runs (31) and runs batted in (108). His numbers were a big help to Cleveland winning their second AL Central title in the past three seasons. Naylor's performance during the 2024 season also helped him get nominated to his first All-Star appearance.

This move is a pivot for the Diamondbacks after they lost Gold Glove 1B Christian Walker to the Houston Astros on a 3-year, $60 million contract in free agency. Naylor will hit the open market following the 2025 season. This move also continues the first baseman flurry of moves, which included 2022 NL MVP and former Arizona Diamondback Paul Goldschmidt signing with the New York Yankees on a 1-year deal. 

The return to the Guardians was highlighted by P Slade Cecconi. Cecconi, once a highly regarded prospect in the Arizona system, will get a fresh slate in Cleveland. In the desert last season, Cecconi pitched to a 6.66 earned run average in 77 innings pitched. One of the things that will be a main point in his development in Cleveland will be the strikeout numbers. Cecconi only struck out batters at a 18.9% rate last season, which is below league average. 

The first base market remains lively with players such as Rangers' Nathaniel Lowe and Giants' LaMonte Wade Jr. avaliable for trade. Also, highly coveted free agent Pete Alonso remains on the market, expected to command a large AAV in his upcoming contract. Seattle, Washington, and New York Mets are the remaining teams with holes at first base. 

FULL TRADE

Dbacks Acquire: 1B Josh Naylor

Guardians Acquire: P Slade Cecconi, Comp Balance Round B Pick