“Lane Thomas loves the first pitch. Thomas hits a ball deep into left field. It is up, it is gonna be, a grand slam!”
Those words from Brian Anderson will forever be burned into the memories of Cleveland Guardians fans, and for the best reason possible. The outfielder’s grand slam in the ALDS off Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is easily going down as one of the great playoff moments in franchise history.
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That memory, along with Cleveland’s desperate need for outfield help, made Thomas an intriguing target for the Guardians to bring back in free agency this offseason. Instead, the veteran outfielder opted to sign with Cleveland’s division rival, the Kansas City Royals.
However, there were some conversations and interest from the Guardians for a reunion with Thomas.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the Guardians “sought a reunion with Lane Thomas before he signed a one-year, $5.25 million free-agent contract with the Royals. But mindful of their young talent, they were willing to offer him at-bats only on the short side of a platoon.”
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Jun 20, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Cleveland Guardians center fielder Lane Thomas (8) bats during the game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
Thomas is coming off a dreadful, injury-filled 2025 season in which he posted a .518 OPS in 39 games. That said, one area where the veteran has always been strong in is hitting off a left-handed pitcher. The right-hander owns an .850 OPS against left-handers throughout his career.
The Guardians have been adamant about not taking away at-bats from Chase DeLauater, George Valera, and CJ Kayufs in any external additions. Cleveland likely wanted Thomas to be a platoon bat, facing only left-handed pitching.
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If this were the case, it’s understandable that the veteran would want a larger role, regain some of his value, and land a bigger, long-term contract next offseason when he hits free agency again. That wouldn’t have happened if Thomas were only a platoon bat.
Of course, it’s unfortunate that the Guardians lost out on Thomas to their division rival. Now, Cleveland will face the one-time Guardians outfielder multiple times throughout the season, and will be repeatedly reminded if the front office made the wrong decision on choosing not to bring Thomas back.
If anything, Cleveland reportedly exploring a reunion with Thomas does show that the front office is at least open to adding a bat to the lineup, if it makes sense to pair with the young trio of sluggers.