Diamondbacks' general manager Mike Hazen expressed confidence that Naylor will enhance their batting lineup alongside players like Eugenio Suarez and Ketel Marte.

In return, the Guardians received Slade Cecconi, a former first-round pick who has struggled in the majors with a 6.66 ERA but has potential for improvement under Cleveland's development system.

While Santana excels against left-handed pitchers, his struggles against right-handers may affect his playing time in the upcoming season.

Overall, these moves reflect the Guardians' strategy to reshape their roster while preparing for the future, particularly with promising talents like Manzardo emerging.

On December 21, 2024, the Cleveland Guardians made a significant trade, sending first baseman Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for right-handed pitcher Slade Cecconi and a competitive balance draft pick for 2025.

This trade comes as Naylor is projected to earn around $12 million through arbitration and is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, prompting the Guardians to act amid their small-market budget constraints.

Naylor, who had a standout season in 2023 with 31 home runs and 108 RBIs, was a key contributor to the Guardians' success, but his defensive liabilities and impending free agency made him a trade candidate.

With this trade, the Guardians now hold two competitive balance picks, which are crucial for small-market teams and can be traded in Major League Baseball.

Santana, who had a successful career including an All-Star appearance in 2019, is expected to provide experience and leadership, sharing first base duties with top prospect Kyle Manzardo.

His departure is part of a broader infield overhaul for the Guardians, which also included trading Gold Glove second baseman Andrés Giménez to the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Diamondbacks were in need of a first baseman following Christian Walker's signing with the Houston Astros, making Naylor an attractive option to bolster their lineup.

Additionally, the Guardians signed veteran Carlos Santana to a one-year, $12 million contract, marking his return to the team where he previously spent ten seasons.