Seattle, WA – The Seattle Mariners have claimed veteran first baseman Carlos Santana off waivers, effectively ending the Cleveland Guardians’ pursuit of the 37-year-old slugger and casting a significant shadow over Santana’s MLB future. The move, finalized late yesterday evening, leaves the Guardians with a significant hole at first base and raises serious questions about the team’s strategy heading into the final weeks of the 2025 season.
Santana, who had been traded to the Guardians following a disappointing stint with the Chicago Cubs, was placed on waivers by Cleveland earlier in the day, prompting a flurry of activity amongst teams seeking a reliable offensive presence. The Mariners, currently battling for a playoff berth, swiftly acted, securing Santana with a minor league contract.
“We’ve been monitoring Santana’s performance throughout the season,” stated Mariners General Manager Ricardo Alvarez during a brief press conference. “His veteran experience and proven ability to drive in runs are exactly what we need at this point. We believe he can provide immediate impact and support our playoff aspirations.”
The Guardians, meanwhile, have remained tight-lipped regarding the decision. Team spokesperson Elena Ramirez offered a concise statement: “We explored several options to address our first base needs, but ultimately determined that Santana was not the right fit for our current roster construction and long-term goals. We wish Carlos all the best in Seattle.”
Santana’s time in Cleveland was marked by inconsistency, struggling to replicate the power numbers he displayed in previous seasons. While he provided some valuable defensive contributions, his offensive output failed to meet the expectations set by the Guardians’ scouting department.
The move now highlights a potential miscalculation by the Guardians’ front office. Some analysts are questioning the team’s willingness to commit to a player showing signs of decline, particularly given the availability of younger, potentially more promising options.
The waiver process allows teams to shed players without incurring a salary cut. However, it’s a complex system, and the Guardians’ decision, combined with the Mariners’ swift acquisition of Santana, points to a potential strategic shift within the American League.
The impact of this move extends beyond the Guardians, potentially influencing the futures of other teams considering similar decisions as they navigate the final stretch of the season. The uncertainty surrounding Santana’s role now remains, adding another layer of intrigue to an already competitive landscape.