Once Spring Training starts, trades and free agent signings become scarce as teams try to evaluate the talent they have in-house.
But training camp hasn’t started yet, and there are a couple of players who would make for perfect last-minute trade targets for the Cleveland Guardians.
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Isaac Paredes has been the subject of trade rumors all offseason, and recent reports suggest the Houston Astros might be motivated to move him before Opening Day. If that’s the case, he’d be a great fit in Cleveland’s lineup.
Paredes is a pure pull righty hitter, which is something the Guardians are desperately missing on their roster. Heading into spring training, Cleveland only has four pure right-handed hitters heading into spring training.
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In 2025, the 26-year-old slugged a .810 OPS with 20 home runs.
A defensive fit on the Guardians may be slightly awkward, given that Paredes is primarily a third baseman and Cleveland already has the position filled. However, Paredes also played a little bit of second base and first base throughout his career, and Cleveland could have playing time available at those positions.
The key point here is that Cleveland could use Paredes’ bat.
Jun 8, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes (15) throws out Cleveland Guardians center fielder Angel Martinez (not pictured) during the first inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Another interesting trade candidate for the Guardians who would solve their right-handed hitting drought is Tampa Bay Rays first baseman and designated hitter Yandy Diaz.
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Even in his age 34 season, Diaz slashed .300/.366/.482 with 25 home runs and 29 doubles. Plus, Diaz had a .922 OPS against left-handed pitching, which would come in handy with the Detroit Tigers’ one-two punch now being a pair of southpaws.
Chris Antonetti has been adamant about not taking opportunities away from young players. With Diaz’s age, he likely wouldn’t be an everyday player, which would still give Kyle Manzardo and C.J. Kayfus plenty of opportunities to play at first base.
Plus, ringing back Diaz to the organization where he made his MLB debut would also be story book saga for the veteran towards the end of his career. The Guardians have a quietly extensive trade history with the Rays, and another deal centered around Diaz could benefit Cleveland right now.
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