The Cleveland Guardians may be poised to change their spending habits as they consider a long-term deal for outfielder Steven Kwan, who had a breakout 2024 season. Typically, the Guardians have been conservative with their finances, often trading away promising players like Josh Naylor instead of locking them down. However, Kwan, who posted a .292 batting average with 14 home runs last season, has ignited discussions around a possible extension.

With Kwan under team control until 2027 and showing elite defensive capabilities alongside his impressive offensive performance, there appears to be a growing sentiment among fans and analysts alike that the Guardians might finally invest in a long-term contract. Cleveland's decision to focus financial resources on player extensions rather than free agency could signal an evolving strategy aimed at retaining homegrown talent.

Josh Naylor is poised for an intriguing fantasy season with the Arizona Diamondbacks following a breakout 2024 campaign. With career-highs across the board, including 31 home runs and 108 RBIs, Naylor has proven his potential as a valuable first base asset. Although his batting average dipped significantly in May to .186 and showed some inconsistency in July and September, his overall performance suggests he can maintain power numbers with a solid on-base approach.

Naylor finished the last season strong, highlighted by impressive first-half statistics that included 20 homers and 61 RBIs in just 289 at-bats. His strikeout and walk rates are favorable, hinting at a strong approach at the plate. However, concerns about his contact ability and exit velocity persist, which could impact his long-term value. Projecting 80 runs, 25 home runs, and 90 RBIs in 2025 seems reasonable, especially with the Diamondbacks' robust offense that led the majors in scoring last year.

The Cleveland Guardians kicked off their 2025 campaign with a nine-inning spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds, falling 6-3. Despite the loss, the game showcased promising performances, particularly from pitcher Triston McKenzie, who struck out one batter and allowed only one earned run, with a remarkable pitch strike percentage of 66.7% and an average fastball velocity of 94.2 mph.

Brayan Rocchio shone at the plate, hitting a leadoff double and ending the game with three hits, while Lane Thomas began the season with a two-run home run, filling the power void left by an injured Josh Naylor. The Guardians' spring training opens a window of optimism as they look to bounce back and build on last season's playoff successes.

Drafting for fantasy baseball success is an intricate dance between category specialists and overall balanced players. Marcell Ozuna, hitting 40 home runs in 2023, and Josh Naylor, a powerful RBI contributor now with Arizona, are prime examples of players whose abilities can skew your fantasy stats in one direction. However, selecting them necessitates careful additional picks to maintain balance.

For those aiming for stolen bases, Xavier Edwards of the Marlins is a breakout candidate, while Yainer Díaz from the Astros offers batting average prowess. On the pitching front, Logan Webb of the Giants has shown durability and effectiveness, leading in innings pitched over recent seasons. Meanwhile, Hunter Greene is an under-the-radar strikeout machine. These players present rich opportunities for savvy managers to exploit value in their drafts.

Congratulations to Josh Naylor of the Arizona Diamondbacks for being named the most influential Canadian in baseball, a title awarded by the Canadian Baseball Network. This recognition highlights Naylor's contributions to the sport, particularly his role in leading the Cleveland Guardians to the American League Championship Series last year, despite a tough loss to the New York Yankees.

Naylor, now entering his new season with the Diamondbacks after a trade, has the potential to become one of the top free-agent bats in the upcoming market as he approaches the end of his contract in 2025. Last year, he recorded 31 home runs and 108 RBIs, making him a player to watch.

The Diamondbacks are gearing up for a competitive season in the National League West, having added former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes to their roster. With the Dodgers as reigning champions, the Diamondbacks will look to challenge for the division title.