Tyler Naquin Transitioning to Pitcher, Signs Minor League Deal with Guardians

The Cleveland Guardians have announced the signing of Tyler Naquin to a minor league contract, with the notable twist that the veteran outfielder is transitioning to a pitcher. Naquin, who has spent the last eight seasons in the big leagues, is set to report as a right-handed pitcher. The 34-year-old has played for various teams throughout his career, including the Guardians, Reds, Mets, and White Sox. Over his career, he has appeared in 562 games, hitting 61 home runs and posting a .263/.316/.445 slash line for a 101 wRC+. Most recently, Naquin spent the majority of 2023 in the minors and played just five major league games for the White Sox as the season concluded. He remained unsigned for the 2024 campaign.
​
Naquin's transition to pitching marks a new chapter in his career, as he seeks to make an impact on the mound. Known for his versatility and athleticism, Naquin's move to the mound is an intriguing development for the Guardians, who are eager to see how his skills translate to pitching. As Naquin prepares for this new role, both the team and fans will be closely watching his progress during the upcoming season.