Former Guardians Playoff Hero Heads to San Diego
The Cleveland Guardians 2022 season was a memorable one, highlighted by a division title with 92 wins, a thrilling AL Wild Card victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, and a competitive ALDS against the New York Yankees, despite falling short. Among the standout players was outfielder Oscar Gonzalez, who emerged as a future star. His dramatic 15-inning home run in the Wild Card game and a walk-off single in Game 3 of the ALDS made him a postseason hero.
With a strong 123 wRC+ during the regular season and clutch playoff performances, Gonzalez looked like a potential cornerstone of the Guardians‘ outfield. However, his 2023 campaign was a struggle. He posted a dismal 48 wRC+ in 180 plate appearances, leading to his loss of a roster spot. After spending much of 2024 in the Yankees’ minor league system, Gonzalez became a free agent.
Now, he’s getting a new opportunity with the San Diego Padres. “Former #Guardians OF Oscar Gonzalez has signed a minor league contract with the Padres for the 2025 season,” announced Guardians Prospective on X. After being signed by the Guardians as an international free agent in 2014 and making his MLB debut in 2022, Gonzalez is hoping to earn a spot on a new roster in San Diego, looking to reignite his career after a difficult few seasons.
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