Rhys Hoskins, Guardians Reportedly Agree to Contract, How Does 1B Fit Updated Lineup?

Rhys Hoskins is on the move after spending the last two seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Per The Athletic's Zack Meisel, Hoskins agreed to a one-year minor league contract with the Cleveland Guardians that would become a $1.5 million base salary if he makes the MLB roster.

The Brewers declined his mutual option for the 2026 campaign this winter despite a decent season for the first baseman, considering he missed nearly half of the year. He collected 12 homers, 43 RBI and a .237 batting average across 90 games. The veteran unfortunately dealt with injuries during the 2025 campaign, missing more than two months because of a thumb injury he suffered in July, but he was back on the field for the final stretch of the season.

Hoskins, 32, spent the first six seasons of his career with the Philadelphia Phillies before signing a two-year, $34 million contract with the Brewers ahead of the 2024 campaign.

His contract included a player option after the first year, but he ultimately decided to remain in Milwaukee for the 2025 campaign, exercising that $18 million option.

At his best, Hoskins is a reliable glove at first and a slugger at the plate. In his last healthy season in 2022, he hit 30 home runs and 79 RBI with the Phillies.

He wasn't exactly that version of himself in 2025, but he'll look to put together a strong first campaign with the Guardians. If nothing else, he'll give the Guardians a right-handed option at either first base or designated hitter, with first baseman Kyle Manzardo and projected designated hitter C.J. Kayfus both lefty bats.

Expect Hoskins to slot somewhere in the middle of the order if he makes the roster, either in a platoon or as an everyday starter.