Carlos Santana was released by the Guardians, opening the door for a veteran bat to land with a contender while Cleveland leans into its youth at first base. He posted 11 homers and 52 RBIs in 116 games this season with a .225 average, but time behind younger names accelerated the exit. Santana’s track record—All-Star, Silver Slugger, and a 2024 Gold Glove with Minnesota—keeps him in play for teams seeking steady depth at 1B/DH.

Cleveland pushed Manzardo and Kayfus forward, signaling a pivot from veteran reliability to upside and development. With Santana available, expect multiple clubs to explore a short-term, cost-controlled signing that could yield immediate 1B/DH balance and veteran leadership for a playoff push.